Yesterday, I traveled to Trinity for an organ lesson. The sun was shinning which made for an enjoyable ride. My lesson was scheduled for 1:00 so for lunch I had a peanut butter sandwich and an apple on my drive. I surely did not want to feel hungry mid-lesson!
When I arrived Michael was at the organ with Chris who attends Trinity. He is an organ enthusiast. Chris listened to at least part of my lesson or possibly all of it (I quickly forgot his presence). I was thankful that he did not stay in the balcony as I still have anxiety to play in front of others (except for my cats!).
I have been pondering what should I share about my actual lesson. When a few people asked me how it went I responded with “good”. But what does that really mean? Just answering with “good” feels just as fake (automatic) as when someone asks “how are you?” and the answer is a quick one word reply only I can’t respond with “good, and how was your lesson?”.
So what made my lesson good? First, Michael remains patient with me as I continue to work on the same pieces month after month. I expressed some frustration with the length of time in learning a piece and received encouragement. Also, the sound of the pipe organ at Trinity is awesome compared to the electronic organ I practice on at home.
God willing, some day I will finally become an accomplished organist!
Heidi Bender writes about her experiences of learning to play the organ. She started on the adventure in 2009.
She also writes on her website Tons of Thanks, which helps people write thank-you notes. Heidi is also a cat lady who writes at The Joy of Cats.