The halls of Bernards High School are buzzing with excitement as the BHS Madrigals prepare to release their newest holiday album, Sounds of the Season 2025. Featuring performances from both choir and band students, the album captures the spirit of the season and highlights the school’s vibrant music community.
What makes this project unique is that it is entirely created by students. Members of the Madrigals take charge of every step of the production process, from setting up microphones and tracking vocals to mastering, marketing, and even handling finances. For many involved, it is the closest thing to running a professional recording studio.
The work behind the scenes is just as impressive as the final product. Recording sessions take place in the school’s music room, where students transform the space into a functioning studio. Abby Wolkow ‘27, a junior in the BHS Madrigals and a member of the audio team, described the learning curve that came with the job. She and her peers had to master troubleshooting equipment, guiding performers through takes, and adjusting to unexpected challenges, often in real time. “You have to be flexible,” she explained, going on to say that “there’s always something to tweak or rethink.”
All tracks are recorded using Audacity, a program the students have learned to use with precision. They rely on condenser microphones for vocals, which keep harmonies crisp and clear, while piano recordings require a bit more creativity. To position mics effectively and reduce vibration, students use a clever technique: cutting open a tennis ball to stabilize the microphone inside the instrument. Other instruments are recorded with dynamic microphones known for their durability and clean sound.
The Madrigals were not the only contributors to the project. Band students also played an essential role, giving their instrumental talents to some tracks. Charlie Quinn ‘27, a junior in the BHS jazz band, performed saxophone on one of the arrangements. “I thought it was a great experience to bridge the vocal and instrumental music programs here at BHS,” he said. “It helped us appreciate each other’s strengths in a new way.”
Each recording session begins by adjusting the microphones to the performers’ heights and ensuring that the room is completely silent. “We always leave a few seconds of silence before and after each take,” said Wolkow ’27. “If something sounds off—like the mic being too close or someone singing too powerfully—we just reset and try again. You have to be flexible.” As for the instrumentalists, Quinn ’27 noted, “It was challenging to record because everyone has very little room for error, and it can become exhausting to have to record multiple takes.”
Even with the technical challenges, Wolkow ‘27 thinks that the talent of the singers and musicians made the process smooth and rewarding. Quinn ‘27 hopes listeners feel immersed in the holiday season and appreciate high school music on a deeper level.
Sounds of the Season 2025 is available now! With sales closing on December 31st. The album costs $20, and every dollar goes directly back into the BHS music program. Funds from the project help support future performances, equipment, and opportunities for student musicians. Whether you are looking to support the arts, give a meaningful holiday gift, or simply enjoy beautiful seasonal music, the students of Bernards High School have created something truly special.
