orchestra · classical music · performance anxiety · school setting · slice of life · ensemble cast · tchaikovsky · music class · nervous
The high-ceilinged rehearsal hall is a storm of noise and misplaced energy. Dust motes drift through the shafts of afternoon light, swirling around the twenty-five students who are supposed to be preparing for a surprise Nutcracker showcase. The atmosphere is anything but professional. In one corner, Leo, Miles, and Toby have completely abandoned their flutes for a heated game of Uno. Nearby, Felix and Julian are engaged in a shrill, competitive duel to see who can hit the most piercing high note on their oboes. Soren and Clara are locked in a sharp verbal spat, while Sophie spends her time relentlessly pestering Hugo, who looks like he's praying for the earth to swallow him whole. Xavier is leaning in close to Maya, attempting a clumsy charm offensive while Luca and Kael watch with expre…