ok, so the essay has to be 300 words or less,and i have to elaborate on an extracurricular activity and why i chose it, why i continued with it, and why i benefited from it. please be blunt!!! constructive criticism is ALWAYS GOOD!!!!
When first presented with the opportunity to play as principal cellist on the Canzonetta Youth Orchestra French Exchange Trip, I was terrified. I had been section leader for the past year, but was I ready to represent my orchestra and country internationally? Equally disconcerting, was the fact that my French vocabulary consisted entirely of the words "oui", "croissant", and "fromages". Despite my fear, I full heartedly accepted the offer determined to prove myself to Mr. Kagan, and my peers. Little did I know that during that week I would learn far more than just how to be a better musician and section leader.
Upon our arrival in Toulouse, we were taken in a bus to the Conservatory, where we were welcomed by a brass quintet and the entire Conservatory. It was extraordinary how welcoming and excited they were to see us. Despite the happiness that overcame me, I could not help but feel isolated. I was-literally-at a loss of words. As much as I wanted to communicate with everyone, I had no clue how; I was now the minority, a feeling entirely foreign to me. How was I going to communicate with people that did not understand me?
I discovered the answer to this question during our first joined rehearsal with the Conservatory. As the conductor stood up to give the first queue, we all raised our bows, in unison, waiting patiently for the downbeat. When it came, the orchestra sounded as one living force, working in complete harmony.
I realized then, that although we may be from different parts of the world, and although we may not understand each other linguistically, we could communicate musically. This is the true beauty, and power of music. Music is the solvent that dissolves all language barriers. Unlike words, Music is not bound by geography, or culture; it can be understood and loved by all humanity.
This experience not only strengthened my love for music, but gave me the ability to empathize with immigrants all over the world. I am confident that these experiences will aid me in my pursuit and development as a musician, scholar, and individual.
When first presented with the opportunity to play as principal cellist on the Canzonetta Youth Orchestra French Exchange Trip, I was terrified. I had been section leader for the past year, but was I ready to represent my orchestra and country internationally? Equally disconcerting, was the fact that my French vocabulary consisted entirely of the words "oui", "croissant", and "fromages". Despite my fear, I full heartedly accepted the offer determined to prove myself to Mr. Kagan, and my peers. Little did I know that during that week I would learn far more than just how to be a better musician and section leader.
Upon our arrival in Toulouse, we were taken in a bus to the Conservatory, where we were welcomed by a brass quintet and the entire Conservatory. It was extraordinary how welcoming and excited they were to see us. Despite the happiness that overcame me, I could not help but feel isolated. I was-literally-at a loss of words. As much as I wanted to communicate with everyone, I had no clue how; I was now the minority, a feeling entirely foreign to me. How was I going to communicate with people that did not understand me?
I discovered the answer to this question during our first joined rehearsal with the Conservatory. As the conductor stood up to give the first queue, we all raised our bows, in unison, waiting patiently for the downbeat. When it came, the orchestra sounded as one living force, working in complete harmony.
I realized then, that although we may be from different parts of the world, and although we may not understand each other linguistically, we could communicate musically. This is the true beauty, and power of music. Music is the solvent that dissolves all language barriers. Unlike words, Music is not bound by geography, or culture; it can be understood and loved by all humanity.
This experience not only strengthened my love for music, but gave me the ability to empathize with immigrants all over the world. I am confident that these experiences will aid me in my pursuit and development as a musician, scholar, and individual.
