Performance Day

Saturday was Jacob's third violin concert.  In the past, I have been able to snap away while he performs, but with Scarlett constantly in my arms, I had a sneaking suspicion that my normal paparazzing would be a little trickier this year.  And sure enough, it would have been nearly impossible.  So I am grateful that I had a little bit of forethought, and that I had Jake head out back for a little pre performance photo shoot.  I love how they turned out, and I love that I got to just sit back and watch this year.

Jake was so excited about the recital!  The week of the concert, it was actually easy to get him to practice.  And the morning of, was spent is a constant state of humming.  He didn't even pause for the water and bubbles running down his face as he rinsed his hair in the shower, he just squeezed his eyes tighter and hummed louder.  

As excited as he gets, I am a little surprised that he doesn't get nervous at all.  But so far he seems immune from any stage fright.  But I guess that shouldn't be too much of a shock, this boy has always been dripping in confidence.  

Jake walked onto his mark with such presence.  It is such a big stage for a little boy, but you'd never know it by the way he carries himself.  He was so eager to start playing, that he didn't even give the pianist time to play her intro (he had just practiced it with her twice only 45 minutes before), but as all good accompanists, she jumped right in.  He played a piece called Lightly Row.  It is a very pretty legato piece, and he played it perfectly.  Arthur and I were so proud of him, but more importantly, I think he was pretty proud of himself.

Just a week before the concert, he had been struggling to remember what part of the piece he was on (since the sections are quite similar) each time he tried to play it.  "How many Cs?" was the question of the week.  Jake first learned the song several months ago and we have kind of neglected it for newer songs during our practices at home.  I was actually a little surprised that it was the song Miss Robin picked.  But in retrospect, I am really glad she did.  It gave him an opportunity gain the sense of achievement that can only come through hard work.

This priceless life lessons is one of the main reasons Jake is taking violin.  Of course, I hope that he becomes a beautiful musician and will fill his life and the lives of others with music.  And I hope that we are instilling in him a life time appreciation and love for music.  But if he gains nothing else, from this experience, than the value of hard work.  Then every dollar spent and every minute of practice (event the frustrating ones) will be worth it.  Natural talent is wonderful, but it will only get you so far.

Jacob, you are amazing!  Heavenly Father has blessed you with a bright mind and an inquisitive nature. Because of these gifts many things come easily for you.  Since you were you a tiny boy, you have impressed people with intelligence and understanding far beyond your years.  Use these gifts, but remember to never shy away from things when they don't come as easily.  Never be afraid to work hard.  Remember how great it felt to perform so well after working so hard.  Set big goals throughout your life, and reach them.  And most important, use all your talents both innate and learned in service of others.  "When you are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God." (Mosiah 2:17)

Your Daddy and I love you more than words could express, and we are so proud of you!