Lifelong dream, 3 weeks of self-study, and one shaky audition [Story]

All my life, I’ve dreamed of learning to play the piano.
But every time I tried to apply to a beginner’s music school, the classes were always full. I checked year after year, hoping for a spot — and it just never worked out.

Then, completely by accident, I found another local conservatory that was still accepting applications. I jumped at the chance.

I had about 3 to 4 weeks to prepare completely on my own for the audition, so I picked two pieces I’ve always loved: Bach’s Prelude in C major and Schubert’s Waltz in B minor. I worked so hard to teach them to myself.

When the day came, I had to wait quite a while for my turn, which made me super nervous. And when I finally went in and saw 8–10 people sitting there as the jury, my hands just started shaking like crazy.

I made it through both pieces, using the sheet music, but I wasn’t satisfied at all with my performance. I actually used to perform a lot as a trumpet player when I was younger, and I had the same stage fright back then — but at least with the trumpet, hand shaking doesn’t ruin everything. With piano, though… every tremble shows.

Now I have to wait a week or two to find out if I got in. No matter what happens, I’m proud of myself for finally trying.

Thanks for reading. 💙