Frustrating Moment

Being not that fond of playing the trumpet, I jumped at the chance to play tuba in my 5th grade band class. Though the tuba was quite an intimidating instrument, the trumpet appeared since there were four trumpet players. By being able to get the tuba chair, I would be unique from the rest of the brass section.

Mrs. Mclaughlin, our music teacher, held try-outs to see who was able to earn the tuba chair. Her prerequisite was for us to play a piece of music composed by non other than herself. I felt that this task was not to be that difficult and felt up for the challenge. After her announcement, I eagerly awaited the next band class, so that I could earn my spot as the tuba player.

Walking into class the day of the audition, I convinced myself properly that I could do well for this audition. As my music teacher called me in for my audition, I quickly galloped forth and examined the piece of music. It consisted of high and low notes that would take my musical ability and embouchure to its limit. Like a serpentine dance it went up and down, making me lose quite a deal of confidence as I started to attempt to play the piece.

Compressing a valve and blowing into the trumpet, the first note flew out of the horn - completely wrong. Moving along, I pressed the next set of valves and the next note came out, also wrong. Quickly concluding the piece, I knew I had failed this audition and would be able to earn the seat. Over the next few days, Mrs. Mclaughlin held further try-outs. At each one, I kept failing the same way as I did on my first attempt, and I wished nothing more than to stop playing an instrument in general.

On the day of her decision, Our music teacher sat the whole brass section down to proclaim who would earn the tuba chair. Already disgruntled, I knew it would not be me. So, imagine my face when Mrs. Mclaughlin did call out my name. I had no idea why should would do such a thing after my horrible auditions. Turns out, the only one able to hold the gigantic instrument was me.