Talent Show/ Violin Recital 2014

Del and I have been listening to an leadership series put out by Dave Ramsey when we are in the car. I heard something interesting while listening. It said that in most cases, the last time a person was applauded for was at their high school graduation. It is kind of disheartening to think that is the highlight.
One thing I love about my church is that it provides opportunity to learn to stand in front of people and either deliver a message, bear testimony, be in a skit, pray, lead music, play music, and so on! We start them young! Little tiny three year olds give talks and pray in our primary. There are programs and nights of service from that point until the end of your life that help you with not only your spiritual well being, but develop life skills.
One such night just passed for us. The annual primary talent show! This eclectic night is always entertaining! The children chose a talent to perform, or display, and not only is it a kind, forgiving atmosphere where the attempt is appreciated no matter the outcome, they get a nice round of applause at the end!

This year Will was playing the piano, Georgia the violin, Walker was singing, and Wally was displaying some of his artwork. Until Will was up sick the whole night before.
Del stayed with Will, and I went to watch, and play accompaniment for Georgia.

I am mad at myself for forgetting to take a picture of Wally's art display.  I do have video of Georgia and Walker thanks to the help of a friend.

I am proud of them. I realize more and more every day that my kids are brave. Braver than I ever was at their age. It is asking a lot to play and instrument in front of people. Or dive into a pool and swim in front of people. And they do it well.

Walker sang a happy rendition of a pre school favorite, "Five Little Hot Dogs."

Here is Georgia getting a high five for her violin performance. She played her recital piece, "See-Saw."

Here is the video.

Georgia also had the opportunity to play her song at her violin recital the week before the talent show. It feels like progress can be slow in this Suzuki violin thing. It is so technical, and to be honest, Georgia struggles to keep her attention and focus on task.

It can be painful for me, in her lessons.

I know that it is all part of the learning process though. Georgia's teacher is so patient. She recognizes the natural abilities Georgia has when it comes to playing, and she is willing to steadily work on the aspects that don't come as naturally.

It is hard work. We need to be more diligent in getting a practice session in five days a week. With Georgia also taking piano, it can be a delicate mother/daughter relationship balance.

Georgia will never be a push over. She is a tough little cookie. Getting her to do what I want can be an exercise in self control for me. Add swim team to the list, which she loves by the way, and three brother's piano, swim, scouts, basketball, etc., and the oversight that requires from me, and we have a lengthy list of things for Mom to nag about.  And keep in mind that this is coming from a woman who was not a stalwart piano practicer growing up. So I'm pretty much a hypocrite trying to instill these values.

All of this is either going to shape her into a fine young lady, or she is going to pack up and run away in the night to join the circus.

 Let's hope for the fine young lady.
Preferably one who knows how to play the violin and piano.

Back to the recital.
 Georgia and I practiced diligently for this. She did not want to get up in front of everyone and be embarrassed. Every time she would start to panic I would remind her that diligent practice was the key to confidence.

There is a scripture in a book of Spiritual insight and revelation from God given to our Prophet Joseph Smith in the 1800's called The Doctrine and Covenants.
The scripture is D&C 38:30

"If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear."

That is what I would tell Georgia. You will be ready, because we are preparing. The scriptures hold the answer to all questions, don't they?
I loved the lesson she learned from this. She got up, did her best, and did well. She learned that she has to practice for that to happen. The result is only as good and the preparation. I hope it sticks! At age six, I'm not sure.

Georgia looked beautiful at her recital. And she also looked tiny.

She played her piece pizzicato. This means plucking the strings. Georgia is working on bowing at home and during lessons. But in Suzuki, bowing is a privilege. Every step and skill added is earned. Georgia is getting to the skill level to be able to bow in her recitals. The majority of the little tiny kids played their pieces pizzicato.
Here is her performance. Good job, Georgie girl!