The Big Advent Concert – December 9 – Advent Calendar 2024

The Big Advent Concert

by Aaron Aaronsen

The notes of “O Come All Ye Faithful” floated through the rehearsal room of the music school as Monti J. Monti focused on guiding his bow across the strings of his violin. Next to him, Leo sat with a concentrated expression, adjusting his trumpet. They were part of the school orchestra, preparing for the big Advent concert where they would perform for the entire community.

“Good, good!” called Ms. Sommer, the music teacher, clapping her hands. “But remember, we play together. Listen to each other!”

Monti nodded, turning his attention back to his sheet music. But as the rehearsal continued, he grew increasingly nervous. The piece included a fast solo that he had to play alone, and every time he tried, his fingers stumbled on the strings.

“Monti, focus,” Ms. Sommer said gently but firmly.

Monti sighed. It felt like he would never get it right.

After the rehearsal, Monti and Leo packed up their instruments.

“I don’t think I can do it,” Monti muttered.

Leo nodded. “Me neither. I keep messing up my entrance. Ms. Sommer must have told me a hundred times. Maybe we shouldn’t even play at the concert.”

Monti looked at Leo in surprise. “You can’t just quit! We’re a team.”

“Yeah, but if I keep making mistakes, I’ll ruin it for everyone else,” Leo said quietly.

Monti fell silent. A part of him understood how Leo felt. He was also close to giving up on his solo.

The next day was the final rehearsal before the concert. Ms. Sommer asked everyone to form a circle.

“I can see that some of you are nervous,” she began. “That’s normal. But remember, it’s not about being perfect. Music is about teamwork. If you listen to each other and play with heart, no one will notice the little mistakes.”

Monti glanced at Leo, who was nervously fiddling with his mouthpiece. Ms. Sommer’s words made Monti think. Maybe it wasn’t such a big deal to make mistakes. Maybe it was more important to try his best and enjoy the music.

After rehearsal, Monti stayed behind with Leo. “You know what? Let’s practice together. I’ll help you with your entrance, and you can help me with my solo.”

Leo gave a shy grin. “Really? Okay, deal.”

The two met every afternoon to practice. Monti played Leo’s entrance on the violin so he could better feel the rhythm, and Leo tapped his foot to help Monti stay steady during his solo.

“That’s sounding so much better,” Leo said one evening after Monti played his solo flawlessly.

Monti smiled. “That’s because of you. Your rhythm helps me stay calm.”

Leo laughed. “And you’re like a living conductor. I think we can do this.”

On the evening of the concert, the music school was beautifully decorated, and the hall was packed with people. Monti sat with his violin in the front row, while Leo took his place further back with the brass section.

As the orchestra began to play, Monti felt his heart pounding. His solo was coming up soon. He glanced over at Leo, who gave him a thumbs-up.

Monti took a deep breath and started his solo. The bow glided smoothly across the strings, and this time his fingers didn’t falter. When he finished, there was soft applause, and Monti felt a wave of relief wash over him.

Later, during “Jingle Bells,” it was Leo’s big moment. His entrance was spot on, and Monti could see the pride shining on his friend’s face.

After the concert, Monti and Leo high-fived.

“You were amazing,” Leo said.

“So were you,” Monti replied. “You know, I couldn’t have done it without you.”

“And I couldn’t have done it without you,” Leo said.

On the way home, Monti thought about what Ms. Sommer had said. Music really was teamwork, and it didn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. By supporting each other, he and Leo had not only played better but also had more fun.

With a smile, Monti looked up at the clear, starry sky, already looking forward to the next concert. This time without fear but full of excitement.