Spring Piano Tournament

Nathan and Maren recently participated in their first piano tournament.  They were excited and well prepared for the opportunity to perform their memorized pieces.  It proved to be a growing experience to play a solo on a grand piano, on a large stage, in front of three critical judges.  Nervousness came not only from this but also from listening to their talented young competition.  Both of them left the stage disappointed in their performance, especially Nathan.  In the end they were awarded with a colored ribbon which indicated the level at which they performed.

Nathan was not interested in having his picture taken.  He handed me his white ribbon and said that it was mine to keep or throw away.  I thanked him and explained that I would not throw it away but rather put it in a special place to remind me of his courage and dedication to learn his piece.  

Two weeks from now the children will participate in a recital hosted by their piano instructor.  This will take place in the same concert hall where the tournament was held.  They are looking forward to performing other pieces they have been working on.  Nathan eagerly began practicing one of his favorites, "Space Invaders" before leaving for school this morning.  

If you are interested in listening to the children play their tournament pieces, click here to view Maren playing "Gigue" by Bastien, and click here to hear Nathan's "Riverboat Jazz" by Mier.  Caroline also wanted to share her piano talents with you.  Maren filmed while encouraging her younger sister to take her thumb out of her mouth.  To watch Caroline play a few notes and suck her thumb, click here.