I woke up earlier than usual this particular Friday morning, and remember that is was so cold outside. The night before, I hardly had any sleep. All throughout the night, I tossed and turned trying to get comfortable. I was finally able to get some rest after drinking a warm cup of tea with honey. That Friday morning, I was so anxious to get to school. It was going to be my first solo in the Christmas recital. I had been preparing and working very hard every day in music class. Mrs. Walk, my music teacher, was always so helpful in music class. Every question or concern I had, she was quick to assist and reassure. However, on this day I was going to have to perform solo without her help.
As my mom drove me to the school, I was repeating the notes I had to play on the piano and the solo part I had to sing that evening at the Christmas recital. My mom could see the nervousness in my face, so she offered to go over the song with me right before I got off the car. We sang the first verse and chorus of “O Holy Night”, then we said goodbye and I headed to class. The entire day I could not stop thinking about my solo. During music class, we went over the songs several times to make certain that everyone knew their part. As I was leaving the class, my teacher pulled me aside and told me that I was doing a great job and not to be intimidated on stage. Her words were very much needed at that moment, and gave me encouragement. As soon as the last bell rang for the school day, I rushed outside to meet my ride so that I could get ready for the recital.
I clearly remember what I wore that evening. My mom had bought me a red velvet dress, with a gold bow that tied around the back. She curled my hair and pinned it half-way up with a small bow-like clip. I wore white tights with black, shiny, closed-toed shoes since it was a cold evening. I felt beautiful. We arrived at the school early, since I had to get in line and get ready for the performance. As time drew nearer for the recital to start, my nerves grew as I waited backstage. Finally, it was time to start. The recital was going well, and my solo was coming up. At last, it was my solo. I sat down on the bench behind the piano, adjusted my posture, and tweaked the microphone to reach where I could sing. I began to play, and it was as if something overcame me. I felt like a young bird, soaring through the air on my own. It was amazing. I even recall closing my eyes a few times throughout the piece. When I was done, I looked up and there in the auditorium was a standing ovation for me. I stood up, took a bow, and smiled at everyone. I could even see a small tear in my parent’s eyes. After the recital, many people approached me and gave me nice compliments. I was about to leave, when I saw Mrs. Walk. I ran up to her and gave her a big hug. I thanked her for helping me in music class and for teaching me not to be afraid of my fears. She taught me more than just singing and playing an instrument. She taught me how to believe in myself and that hard work will be rewarded. That is a lesson I will never forget.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
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Good story - I like the lesson learned:)
ReplyDeleteSBH
Good story! I loved it.:) You used alot of detail and it was very enjoyable to read. I really like how it was a lesson learned.
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