Piano Solo Ensemble

I drove my my son to Grant Michigan two days ago. Andrew has been playing piano for nine years. This is the third time we have done this. He is practicing as I write this. Chopin was the piece he was going to play. My son has practiced this piece all year,his piano teacher Sue has worked with him weekly.

Driving down the icy snowy roads in my Green van, he was focused on getting a one, or a blue ribbon. Andrew is a hard worker, and is determined too succeed. We make it a hour early and he practices on a digital piano, something he is not used too, seeing the frustration as he pushes lightly on the keys. I took him down and we had some Nachos and a Coke, he likes to eat, I thought it would help. I was the helpless one, I never played a instrument. Listening to him practice it always sounds good. Music is something everyone cannot play, it is a gift. I tried to give him some advice before the competition. I felt helpless.

The time for his judgement came, it was ten fifty. We waited by room four, till they let us in.Andrew practiced on the Baby grand, and I sat in a Middle school desk next to his band Instructor. The time to play was going to happen, and I was a ball of nerves. Am I a good father if he does bad on the recital piece? I can not even look at him as he plays, I am all nerves. The Judge says it is time to play.

Andrew started very well and as he played he started to get nervous. I was tearing up inside, for I have heard him play the piece much better before. After he was done the Judge was going to tell him his review. I looked at Andrew and he had this cold stare at the wall, he knew he could of done better. The Judge gave his review and he did OK, but he needed to put more emotion in it. Andrew never looked at the Judge he just stared at his disappointment at the wall.

I teared up, but composed my self. Andrew was mad, he wanted a one, not a two. I explained to him, that he worked hard, and should not be disappointed. My prayers are answered, for failure inspires him to work more. Andrew has been practicing harder, and is determined to play the piano. Andrew will get a one his Senior Year.

I am so proud of Andrew, he is like his Mother,he never gives up. They both work so hard to get where they are. I am so blessed to have them in my life. I give them both a one for their ambition in life. I am the lucky spectator.