Viola

As I try to write some impressions on what I experienced at the neighbourhood music school, I realize my limitations in the English language. Or have I just identified a gap between the French and the English? I wanted to begin with the name of the instrument played by those young students, to whom I listened to yesterday. I discovered that in fact, my title should have been Viola. I then wanted to specify that I know little of music - having confused the Viola with the Violin - and wanted to use the French word "mélomane" to describe how little I know of music. This word however translates with "music lover". To say that I am not a "mélomane" does not convey the true meaning of what I wanted to say: I love music but my musical knowledge is limited. I then looked up the word "conservatoire" and realized that it simply translates as music school. In fact a conservatoire is not simply a music school, so again I stumble on words. The Conservatoire is a conservative place - as its name clearly indicates - a very selective school with grades, exams, diplomas and, a very official status. It is the institutional music school which breeds qualified musicians.
The viola students from year one onwards were on stage with their teacher playing for parents and friends what they had so harshly learnt in this austere place of knowledge.
Tiny beginners clutch tiny violas from which they carefully extract screeching sounds. Their serious expressions and sweet looks generate deep sympathy.
Slightly older two year students extract a greater variety of screeching notes, which almost sound right when they all play together.
A pure note stands out now and then drawing proud smiles in the audience.
Awkward tall young teenagers perform, expressions ranging from fear to surprise, from sulkiness to utmost seriousness, as they tackle with more complicated gamut, which somehow escape their control.
While admiring their perseverance, my ears cry for pity. Oh, untameable viola, how much love and hate you must inspire to those who dare try to tame you.
And then the finale. Together they play and the notes seem to blend into music, guided by the gentle and inspired sounds of one who has mastered viola and overcome so many rugged reefs.