There’s so much more to Wicked than the story in the script. Every line is filled with emotion and backed by beautifully layered chords and harmonics. Seeing it in person was a one-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget. Stephen Schwartz’s majestical scores are packed with so much power, that the instruments alone could tell the story. The flutes and clarinets float through the air, bringing a smile to my face, while cellos build beautiful chords filled with emotion. Wicked has shaped not only how I see music, but also the world around me. Beyond just listening to Wicked, its music has also influenced my love for musical expression. As a viola player, I’ve come to appreciate the complexity and emotion that music can convey. I wish I could play Defying Gravity with the same emotional intensity as in the musical. I admire the way the song seamlessly builds from quiet determination to soaring triumph. The sweeping orchestration of Wicked inspires me to bring the same level of passion and storytelling to my own playing, reminding me that music has the power to move people in ways words cannot. Another reason Wicked is so special is that it brings me closer to my friends. We love singing along to the movie, belting out our favorite songs, and fully immersing ourselves in the story. Whether we’re dramatically performing Popular or laughing through Dancing Through Life, these moments have created memories that I will always cherish. The music of Wicked is more than just entertainment—it strengthens friendships and brings joy to our lives. Wicked has had a profound impact on both my social and musical life. It has strengthened my friendships, giving me shared moments of joy and connection through music. At the same time, it has shaped my understanding of orchestration, inspiring me to express emotion through my viola playing just as the show’s musicians bring its songs to life. The way Wicked blends storytelling with powerful music continues to influence me, pushing me to grow both as a musician and as someone who finds meaning in the connections music creates.