Ginny, G1, Shenzhen College of International Education

深圳国际交流学院 G1年级 Ginny

2018 is coming to an end. Almost every school holds different kinds of shows and plays in various ways to celebrate a new year that is marching its way toward us.

A few stars ornament the ebony sky, but they are soon concealed by the spotlights that shot rays of diverse colors in all directions. A huge poster was established at the back of the open-air stage. Performers, teachers and staff members were doing the last preparations for the event that would take place soon. Spectators were finding their seats, whispering. The concert at our school was about to begin, and my heart beat was slightly faster than usual, due to the fact that I will perform in half an hour.

I was wearing an almost floor-length crimson dress and tried to hide my unseasonable sneakers under it while walking. I was going to play an ensemble with harp and piano, and I held my violin and its bow in my left hand, chatting with the other two people to relieve my nervous feeling.

Our ensemble was the fifth to perform. Before us was a singing show. Two people sung “City of Stars” with piano and guitar accompanying. The clear and refreshing voice of the singers and the soft melody made the audience feel a warm glow in their hearts on a breezy night.

As the singing was coming to an end, I felt much more intense than ever, but that feeling faded in a second.

“Now let’s welcome the harp band!”

The three of us stepped onto the stage. As I performed, I felt less nervous and played better. I could hear the harp behind me, which was a pleasant string-plucking sound with a comforting melody. The whole tune was slow-paced and was peaceful. After a while the harp played her last pluck beautifully and our performance was over. We walked down the stage in the applause of the spectators.

The performance after us was two songs combined together — “Faded” and “See You Again.” Performers used piano, violin and a drum set to present the melody instead of singing. That was a totally different tune — more delighted and catchy.

My first ensemble in public at our school was definitely not perfect, but it was a memorable experience in which I can find my shortcomings in playing my instrument and overcome them the next time.