It’s Not Easy Being Green-Life of a Student
Today, I had the opportunity to observe a summer string camp rehearsal. Lots of violins, two viola’s, two cello’s and two double base. The conductor, though very knowledgeable, really didn’t know how to talk to the students. He would say to the viola’s, “Alright, you aren’t playing the f-sharps accurately, raise your second finger. Try measure twenty-two again–and this time I want to hear you play individually, so Brian, I want you to start at measure 22 and play to 30.” Poor, poor Brian, he was like a deer caught in the headlights.
The thing about this situation was that I would say Brian (not his name) had been playing for maybe two or three years. He really wasn’t following the conductor well because the conductor was too technical and dry for his level, and now–because the conductor put him on the spot–his perception of playing the viola for fun was quickly deteriorating. I felt Brian’s misery.
When I was growing up, I had similar experiences over and over again. It’s hard to be put on the spot—but here is some good advice. If you find youself put in a situation like Brian, don’t let that moment define you. You are just fine. Do your best–and if in your best, you play something that doen’t sound so good–LET IT GO:) And one more thing, everyone in your situation generally feels the same exact way. So remember that.
