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He practiced so hard.
His teacher said he needed to practice his piece 100 times. So he counted and made sure.
When his tempo was a little too slow at the rehearsal in the morning, he went home and did it five more times at the correct speed. He was ready.
In the afternoon, he put on his freshly steamed shirt and insisted he could only have a snack — that is what his teacher had said to do before the concert. And to him, that made it a law.
He was jumpy with excitement, as I scrambled to find an empty flash card for my camera and rush us out the door. We couldn’t be late. Not for this.
When we got to the restaurant – the humble location of his first “concert” – he bounced over to the other students, to sit in the chairs lined up for them. A jazz pianist, the special guest artist, performed on the small piano tucked in the corner of this small Mexican Cantina.
Our table was in the front and Jackson came over to me, his step a little gentler than before we arrived. “I thought it was going to be a grand piano,” he whispered, his face betraying his disappointment. When his teacher has said, “concert,” what does a six year old imagine?
He had played at “recitals” – but to him, this “concert” was different.
“That is okay sweetie, they just can’t fit a grand piano in here,” I assured him.
He rejoined the other kids and I readied my DSLR, instructed my mother how to use my video camera, and waited. I was so nervous for him.
He was the third student called. He walked to the piano, just as he had practiced — hands at his side, smile on his face. After he bowed, he turned to the piano and took a deep breath as he sat down.
I could feel him concentrating, his eyes fixed on the keys. Usually so easily distracted, I thrilled to see that beautiful moment of deliberation. He was completely absorbed.
He played his song beautifully. As he bowed, I hoped he knew it. I hoped he felt proud.
After everyone had finished and tables were cleared and emptying, his teacher put her hand on his shoulder. “Do you know what Jackson? After everyone had played, my friend, the jazz pianist, said to me, ‘That boy, Jackson, he had his tempo perfect.’ You know – you were the only student he singled out.”
Jackson beamed.
It was a crowded, tiny restaurant, with a handful of young students performing for parents and family. But this “concert” did its magic. It turned a six year old boy into a musician.
Mrs. T. says
Hey Jackson, I don’t know if your mom is still reading these replies, but just in case… WAY TO GO!!! (Love, your old piano teacher)
CPA Mom says
I had to tell you that this story about Jackson did make me tear up! Way to go buddy!! Thanks for sharing it with us.
Mia says
That was so lovely, I wept! Congrats to Jackson!
casual friday everyday says
Oh Janice, how proud you must be. I would be filled with tears, joy and pride. Such a sweet boy he is.
Nell
J. says
How precious! Almost made me cry!
Natalie Willis says
Ohhhhhhhh, I love this story. As a momma to a young woman violaist, I totally get that transition to musician and it is so magical. Way to go, Jackson!
Natalie
http://www.believeinmandy.blogspot.com
Cynthia says
That is wonderful! I remember my piano performances as a child…very special times. It’s wonderful that he works so hard and that you are so supportive of him.
tracey says
That is SO sweet. I remember my own son’s first “Concert”… Glad it went so well for him!
SarahHub says
It’s hard to type through my tears!
What a beautiful post about seeing your son grow up and his great accomplishment!
Kristi says
Speaking as a piano teacher, that’s awesome. his left hand curve is beautiful, too.
Hol says
Yea! Way to go Jackson! What a beautiful post too Janice. This brought back so many memories of when I played in concerts and solos (piano and flute). I hope this moment you captured in writing, photos, and video will last Jackson and you a lifetime.
Alicia says
This is beautiful.
Happy Mama says
Wow good for him!! We have a VERY cute picture of my husband when he was about 4 after he had played his violin piece curled up right on the stage next to his teachers feet and went to sleep!
RefreshMom says
Way to go Jackson! And a beautiful memory of the moment, Janice.
Queen of My Domain says
Wow how sweet is that.
Carrie says
How amazingly sweet. It’s moments like these that make all the hard work absolutely worth it.
MommyNamedApril says
how fantastic. i’m totally teary 🙂
happily retired gal says
Lovely post and marvelous reminder to slow down and see life through the eyes of our children and grandchildren … thanks for sharing ;–)
Hugs and blessings,
Andrea says
That’s so sweet! It reminds me so much of my son!! He’s in kindergarten this year and a VERY serious student. One day, he came home gushing about how one of the words they learned was “will,” which just happens to be his middle name. I said, “Did you tell anyone that?” I’m always encouraging him to talk to his classmates, since he’s so quiet and shy. Well this time, he looked at me like I was CRAZY. He said, “Mommy, we’re not supposed to talk during CLASS!” It was pretty funny to be chastised by my six-year-old son! I’m proud of him, though, for taking his schoolwork so seriously! 🙂
His school has their first Christmas concert tonight, and he’s been practicing his songs all week. It’s precious! I can’t wait to go and watch him sing!
Beth/Mom2TwoVikings says
Wow! *sniff, sniff* Beautifully done – the writing AND the playing! LOL You will be so glad you captured this day in writing!
AmyG says
What a beautiful post! I’m glad he did so well & he should be very proud of himself!