As a 4-year, devoted member of the Ramapo Strings Orchestra, Emma Ufakacar will be leaving with an outstanding legacy. Emma is a Musicianship Merit Award and a National School Orchestra Scholarship recipient, awarded to students who demonstrate consistent dedication and commitment to the art. Through the program, Emma has performed solos, participated in intramural adjudications, and successfully mastered challenging repertoire. Regardless, Emma still emphasized, “More than any award or recognition, what means the most to me is being able to look back and see how much I’ve grown as a musician and how far I’ve come since I first picked up the instrument.”
Emma has been an integral part of the orchestra for the last four years. “She always makes everyone feel welcome and included, and we will miss her bright demeanor and positive attitude,” Orchestra Director Mrs. Reitter commented. She is not only passionate about the music she plays, as it is in direct connection to who she is as a cellist and dancer at Studio 691, but she is also incredibly talented in expressing her own interpretation of the notes. “Playing in the orchestra has helped me develop an even deeper connection to music,” Emma added.
Her journey would not be complete without her peers. The Ramapo Strings Orchestra is the smallest of Ramapo’s music groups. However, as Emma put it, “It feels like we are part of something special and have such a great opportunity to perform pieces together as a unit; there is something incredibly rewarding about working together to bring music to life for an audience!” Junior violinist Ariana Nowak added, “Emma is not only a reliable, trustworthy member of the orchestra, but she is also someone that I enjoy working and collaborating with.” Working in such a small group, Emma has had the opportunity to make connections on a more holistic level. On top of being a stellar cellist, Emma is a leader. “When Emma started in Orchestra her freshman year, there was an older cellist in the program that was a great role model for Emma,” Orchestra Director Mrs. Reitter commented. “As Emma has advanced through our program, I’ve had the honor of getting to watch her transition into this role for the new, younger cellists.”
Now, Emma is about to begin her next chapter at the University of Southern California to study journalism and political science with a pre-law emphasis. In the future, Emma plans to focus on politics, government, or international affairs. California is a long way from home, but Emma is excited to explore and thrive in her new environment. Still, she will stay close to her roots. “While my academic interests are a major part of my future plans, I also plan to continue pursuing my creative passions through both music and dance!”
To all aspiring musicians, Emma encourages them to stay strong. “Whether you’re learning a new skill, working on a project, or facing a challenge, growth often happens during the difficult moments,” Emma advises. “If you keep showing up, stay committed, and trust yourself, you’ll be proud of what you’re capable of accomplishing!” Challenges are inevitable, and it is necessary for all young adults to know that any goal worth pursuing will require sacrifices and dedication.
