Violin

            The boisterous hush of the audience excites my anxiety and at the same time suppresses the nervous inferno that burns within me. The conductor tries to calm our restlessness, giving us a false sense of confidence. I glance tensely at our undersized violin section, and then quickly refocus on the conductor. As if by instinct, my mind relaxes, momentarily drifting from the music .
             I did not have the best introduction to the violin. My involvement in music was not even voluntary. My parents were not very fortunate in being able to immerse themselves in music during their youth. Thus, they thought it appropriate that they could live as musicians, vicariously, through me. They planted the idea of music when I was in the third grade, but I did not express any desire to have anything to do with the school's orchestra. In the end, they persuaded me, and I was forced to show up, violin case in hand, for the first day of orchestra rehearsal. Very gradually, however, through the inspiration and steady encouragement of my violin teacher, I began to develop a certain affinity to the violin.
             Almost nine years later, I consider playing the violin as one of the most gratifying aspects of my life. In my mind, the violin reigns as the best instrument. Whether blusteringly chaotic or lovingly sweet, good violin playing, with its deep, rich tones and tremendously broad range is the quintessence of expression. I also had ample opportunity for the other half of the interpretation of the arts. I feel a pleasure beyond description when listening to individuals like Yo-Yo Ma. I am able to just sit there and think about my life, and Yo-Yo Ma's commanding music can make me feel ebullience or rage. Not even the hectic schedule during junior year of high school has dulled my appreciation. In fact, playing the violin was my means of coping with the stress of two science classes and waking up early for marching band.