Conrad's 1st piano recital

There's a man in our ward by the name of Drew Thomas (he's a pediatrican), who plays the organ for our church service on Sundays. He does a great job with the hymns, but his postlude is what is amazing. One day after, the Sacrament meeting he played Widor's Toccata - 5th Organ Symphony Opus 42 No1. Hans, Conrad & I just sat there, hypnotized by the beautiful music. After he finished, Conrad turned to me,

Conrad:"I want to play the organ like that."
Me: "It took Drew a year to learn that song and he's been playing the organ for years."
Conrad (with resolve): "Okay, I'll do it."
Me: "You'd have to learn to play the piano first."
Conrad: "Okay."
Me: "You'll have to practice everyday."
Conrad (with even more resolve): "Okay, I'll do it."
Me: "Okay."

So, this past Thursday (May 21, 2009) Conrad played in his 1st piano recital.


I've noticed with Conrad that when he has to perform, whether it be dance, music, or a speech, he gets his game face on (see picture above) and acts very serious and self assured. I asked him if he was nervous and if he felt ready, he coolly answered, "No I'm not nervous at all and yes, of course I'm ready."
I felt like quoting Willie Wonka and saying "You do seem confident, and confidence is key..."
That night he played 3 songs, Old McDonald had a Song, Wind in the Trees and All the Stars are Shining. After he played, looking rather satisfied, he took a bow and sat down. His recital went well and I'm hoping this will be a jumping off point for him and he will excel and want to push himself to play Widor's Toccata.