In the era of the COVID-19 crises, San Luis Obispo High School students are finding out how challenging it is to pursue your interests and passions.  For example, those who enjoy sports can no longer meet up with fellow athletes or team members for practice or games. Others who like chess or gaming are no longer able to meet up for tournaments or club activities.  For musicians, it can be especially challenging — no more lessons with instructors or practicing with friends.  

  “Now that I’m not able to attend my usual vocal, dancing, and singing lessons with my company it’s been pretty weird trying to figure out how to be creative,” said junior Maggie Zuniga.

  However Zuniga did not let the crisis create an obstacle to her musical passions. Being a trailblazer, she has used her innovation and creativity to collaborate and create new music — and had a lot of fun along the way. 

  “A few of my friends and I have started to film virtual duets, because lag over video calls are so bad we each sing our individual parts of a duet or trio and send them to one of the people in the group. The person edits it together and then it’s a duet, just over the internet,” said Zuniga.

  That’s not all however, Zuniga has figured out how to pursue elaborate music ideas through technology

  “Right now I’m working on a collaboration from the Broadway musical “The Prom” with my friend, Ryan. I also have facetimed with some friends to just jam and write songs. I think that everyone, myself included, is really learning how we can use technology to our advantages,” said Zuniga.

  It can be difficult to have fun with friends during a national lockdown, however Zuniga made it possible. By following her passions she is able to make joy through music for herself, friends, and others.

  “I’m definitely learning something about how important it is to stay creative despite the circumstances that you might be in,” said Zuniga.