Above the stage is where the story is told and songs sung, but below is where the backbone lies. The Pit. The thunderous sound of music within the Pit, makes it nearly impossible to imagine how the students can have any coherent thought, let alone beautifully depict the show through music.

“The Pit brings another dimension to the musical, they bring a sense of liveliness and reality to the musical that wouldn’t be there if the music was just played from a track,” said senior Brian Bialowas who plays Lord Farquaad in this year’s musical, Shrek.

Being a member of the Pit is a big commitment, the music is challenging and takes a lot of time and practice to master. The band and orchestra students already spend multiple hours a week rehearsing their normal pieces.

“The Pit plays in all the musical shows, you can’t talk and you have to go to after school rehearsals.” said senior viola player, Tara Brooky.

The Pit is where the band and orchestra players come together to play music for the musicals, adding in the all-important music aspect. But despite the affect the pit has on the play, they are often times widely overlooked by the audience. Especially since the only visible part of the Pit from the audience, is the top of orchestra teacher, Melissa Meyers’ head and the occasional flick of her baton.

“It’s hard. You don’t get much sleep and you don’t get home until like 10 p.m.” Senior trumpet player Nick Sterenberg said.

Being a part of the Pit also allows the band and orchestra students to be involved in something quite different from their usual concert.

“The Pit is more difficult than a concert because you have to coordinate with the other members, along with the people onstage, making sure you don’t interrupt them,” Brooky said.

Persevering through the challenge the Pit posses, allows the musicians to not only increase their skill, but also to be involved in a completely different activity. Pushing them out of their comfort zone and allowing them to see other members of the school excel in their area of expertise.

“I just love being a part of the musical, it’s so exciting to see my classmates perform.” said Brooky “[Shrek] really showcases the talent the drama kids have, the cast is very diverse and they sound great.”