Hi :) This is the full topic: Tell us about an experience in which you left your comfort zone. How did this experience change you? Any tips/constructive criticism is greatly appreciated!
As a junior in high school, I was chosen. My high school orchestra teacher saw me as one of the more talented violinists in the class and asked if I would like to become a member of the Hermitage High School String Quartet during my senior year. A large, white smile plastered onto my face and without hesitation, I accepted her generous offer.
Our first performance was at a unique, local restaurant named Mosaic's. While driving to our show, apprehensive thoughts began to race through my mind. Nervousness set in and the fear of playing an extremely difficult solo made my body quiver violently. The urge to vomit came and eventually subsided. Having played the violin for six years at the time, I was always used to playing in an enormous orchestra with accompanying violins, violas, celli, and basses. All eyes would be on me; in my mind, the pettiest, rudimentary mistake would result in ridicule from my friends and others in attendance.
Walking into the restaurant, my trembling knees collided with one another. I encountered the additional members of the String Quartet, and they quickly noticed my anxiousness and agitation. Constant reassurance was embedded into my brain that everything would be okay. I unpacked my violin, and while a series of deep breaths kept me harmonious; a pair of bleak and clammy hands was still evident. The moment had finally arrived. Sixty people expected to hear elegant, classical music as they enjoyed their appetizing meals and what a better way to do that than to hear a three minute violin solo. Lightly placing the violin between my left shoulder and chin, I positioned the bow on the string and started playing Veracini's "Gigue from Sonata in D Minor". All of a sudden, the room felt empty; it was just me and the music. I was no longer concerned with the opinions of others, just as long as my best effort was put forth. Bystanders seemed to be in awe with my use of vibrato; the crispness of the violin strings was beneficial as my fingers steadily oscillated back and forth. Smooth, long bow strokes brought out the majestic tone of the instrument. A final chord concluded the piece and a boisterous round of applause erupted from the audience. That same conspicuous smile appeared again, this time lasting for minutes on end.
After enduring the intense internal conflicts of playing a solo in front of a great number of people, I feel as if I can achieve anything. Confidence in public gives off an exclusive type of swagger that is very essential because whether I like it or not, I am judged based upon my actions and character. Great impressions are everlasting; even when stepping out of my comfort zone, I try to make the best of every situation that comes my way. With trying new things comes new challenges and although the transition from the commonplace to the unfamiliar is intricate, any situation can become more sanguine with an optimistic mindset and supportive peers.
Thanks a lot! :)
