A Larger Whole
The string binds with my fingertips to create its imprint on me
The sound of the bow at first touch to the bridge creates a rasp that’s unpleasant to the ears
I feel the weight press down onto my shoulder
My violin has become an extension of myself
The weight of the bow on the string shifts through the motion of my forearm
My arm moves back and forth like an inner game of tug o war.
The smell of fresh cut wood floods my senses
Rosin flies off of the horse hairs and into the air creating a powdery smoke
The glare of the stage lights flash into my eyes
Heads turn when the full orchestra’s pizzicato combines to sound like one
Each individual becomes part of a larger whole
The dynamics spring from piano to mezzo forte
And everything comes together in one beautiful melody
The tune comes to an end and the audience claps their hands together until their palms begin to ache
They fly up into a standing ovation with bright smiles plastered across their faces
We take our bows and exit
I show you this marvelous moment from the confines of my home
I see the joy beaming out of you
The same joy that’s with you when you play piano
And when I sing
And when our musicality crosses into a beautiful duet
You are the reason I make music
I get that from you
I wish you could see me play in person
Because I’d be playing for you
Dedushka, I love you.