First Piano Recital

James is his own man: he had memorized his recital pieces, but didn't ever play them the same way twice. He would change the dynamics, the number of repeats, his hand positioning, and the octaves he used every. single. time. he. practiced. Even when asked/prompted/begged to "play it the way you're going to play it at the recital." So, when he stepped up to the piano, there was no telling what this boy was going to do:

Shaking off his upset in the highest octave.

Stumbling in the lower octaves, then recovering, and finishing the piece all slow, strong, and then surprisingly gentle.

Did you see that stifled little smile at the end when he hears the people clapping for him?

James, James, James. Who are you? Not a performer, per se, craving the limelight, but somehow confident enough in yourself to play it the way YOU want to hear it, and easy going enough to be flexible when you get stuck. Pleased in the praise, but you don't let them know it. Heaven forbid you encourage them! Then glowing all evening, proud of yourself.

You're fascinating, James. Absolutely fascinating.

Congrats on your first public performance!