Music to me I can’t imagine life without music. I know at some point in time the only instrument I knew was the recorder, and that I didn’t even know something called “alto clef” existed. But when my fifth grade orchestra teacher played us his viola I was instantly in love with its warm, rich tone. Eight years later I’m preparing for college auditions and filling out applications for schools with strong music programs. Instrumental music is what defines me as a person. I would not be who I am today without the experiences that my viola and I have had the privilege of going through. It greatly upsets me that next year a young fifth grader may not get the same opportunity. Orchestra has given me problem solving skills, taught me leadership, and broken me out of my very shy shell. It has forced me to work with people I may not like and given me the confidence to strive for excellence. I know I’ll be able to apply these skills as I venture out into the world. Whether or not I have a career in music is yet to be decided, but life without it doesn’t exist anymore. I know that viola will forever be a huge part of who I am and how I communicate with the world. I know that I will continue to play; there is no question there. Music has forever shaped my life and I have fifth grade to thank for that. Submitted by: Annmarie Carlson Senior at Wheat Ridge High School December 2011 |   |