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My Hero’s Journey By: Kate

One day, I discovered my true passion under the vibrant sun of the vast soccer field... music.

When I was five, my mom and dad asked me my opinions about taking a piano class. I cherished the thought of learning how to play a real piece and learn a calm classical ballad. Soon enough I practiced with a teacher in the neighborhood! It was simple enough but I grew tired of having to practice. I enjoyed piano, I just wasn’t good, it was time for a change.

Thankfully my dad was always there. He guided me and pushed my efforts to the next level.

Every other night, my dad’s voice would echo downstairs and put me straight to practicing. For reassurance, he stayed and worked on a calming or quick piece till 9:00 at night! Even though we had our moments, he always helped me to persevere—showed me right from wrong—got me where I am today.

When learning, there is always a challenge. The key is to learn from mistakes and keep trying.

Learning how to adapt to practicing was a definite challenge. Practicing was no fun when you had a piece that wasn’t meant for you. I wasn’t captivated—passionate. The struggle was getting better on the easy music and the only way to accomplish that goal was practicing. I was very stubborn and didn’t realize it takes time.

The more I grew as a pianist, the more marvelous opportunity’s I took part in!

About two years ago, my piano teacher offered me a place to be in a UT piano festival! I was so thrilled! Sitting in front of a judge, watching my hand glide along the piano—willing my hands to feel at home. As the years grew, my music got harder and I am still continuing piano festivals! These events helped me gain confidence about my technique. Without them, learning my pieces may have seemed a little harder.

A moment from a recital at a beautiful church! I played “Fountain in the Rain”, my favorite piece to learn!

Practicing piano... a sacrifice of time.

These days, I try to practice everyday. Time is so essential with all the homework flying around, its hard to amend my day to fit piano practicing. However, once my fingers touch the keys, I instantly drift away.

An electrifying opportunity to play in a new venue!

When competing in the Romantic/Contemporary festival, I received a letter to play in an Honors recital! Under the spotlight and in front of the blue cloud backdrop, I bow deeply and shift my dress to a comfortable position. l lightly step on the pedal and watch my fingers dance. This is truly my favorite event to attend as a musician!

Above is a video of a pianist from Utube playing “Last Chance Blues”. This piece expresses a jazzy and spirited and has been my most recent piece to play at a UT festival! Thank you for watching!

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