An Unexpected Performance

by Lauraine Alberetti Lombara

Four years of twice-yearly concerts presented by a highly accomplished group of students was coming to a close for this grandmother.  My grandson plays tenor sax in a jazz group and concert band, providing his family numerous opportunities to enjoy his talent and love of music.

The finale of the year was a “Pops” concert, newly stationed in an outside amphitheater at his high school.  The evening had become cool and breezy, a welcome relief from the sudden high heat of the past two days. My family and I sat comfortably up close, at tables and chairs positioned near the performers.

The program featured selections from several band and orchestra groups, followed by a Senior Medley - a tradition for the departing seniors and arranged by one of them.  As the beautiful music progressed, the breeze progressed likewise into a mild wind, scattering pages of music clipped to music stands if left unattended for a moment. Even the director’s music took off. The temperature began to fall and everyone felt the chill, especially the girls shivering in their lighter dresses, but all bravely played on.

At the end of the concert, as the director was gathering his music, I and others who had retrieved music pieces in flight, rose to pass them to him...or at least, I tried.  As I walked towards him, I failed to notice the slightly raised podium sitting on the concrete, my excuse being it was the same color as the concrete and the darkened amphitheater was not conducive to keen sight.  One second I was upright, the next, doing a face plant as I tripped on the podium - sending the music, my phone and glasses flying.  I lay flat on the cement, a little dazed and a lot embarrassed.  

My family and a helpful gentleman near me came running and carefully raised me to my feet. I was amazed I had not broken any bones, nor my glasses nor phone. I felt a bit bruised but had not a scratch. The next day, however, my left jaw looked like I had been given a left hook!  Of course, I was a bit shocked and annoyed that I was such a klutz, but sat quietly for the remainder of the eve.  

I feel the concert was a tremendous finale for the high school music season and more so for all the seniors.  I know it is a night I shall always remember, and my family shall also have an unexpected performance to critique!