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Faith Fitness
Bro. Sam Kaufman
Sandra Stark and Jeremiah
As of this writing, the first of two piano recitals was in the books. So far, so good. The first one actually went great.
Two of our children take lessons from Sandra Stark at Faith Temple in Alex City. It has been a wonderful experience for both.
Our young redhead, Addie, first became involved last year. Now, it’s Addie and Jeremiah. The lesson period culminates in an annual spring recital at Faith Temple’s facility.
My wife is the nervous one. She scurries about looking for the proper outfits for the kids, constantly reminds us how long before we need to leave for the recital and is generally anxious.
“Did you remember to practice one last time?” she asked Jeremiah before we left for Monday’s extravaganza.
With Jeremiah, there’s always that little lingering doubt in the back of her mind. That’s because our oldest son is so much like his father.
It could be great, or not so great! This is where prayer comes in handy.
But it’s important to do our part, as well. I told Jeremiah last week if he wanted to do well at the recital – that if he wanted to really nail it, so to speak – he needed to put in the time with the ivory. Practice, practice, practice.
With the boy executing that advice, I’ve had “In the Hall of the Mountain King” rapidly humming through my head.
And, to think, our youngest son, Abe, is taking up the drums.
Jeremiah’s mom was nervous Monday and so was the budding young pianist. But this is a 12-year-old boy about to become a teen we’re talking about.
Was he uncomfortable about getting up in front of the crowd and possibly blowing it on the keys? Perhaps a little. But his primary anxiety focal point was sitting between two cute girls in the loft area as the pianists waited to take center stage.
I’ve never seen Jeremiah so fidgety. He couldn’t sit still! I worked hard to get a couple photos, but his head was always down looking at his papers.
Then, all of the sudden, it was his turn. He appeared to walk somewhat confidently and quickly up to the grand.
We’re thinking to ourselves, “Did we pray hard enough?”
Jeremiah then arrived at the bench, adjusted himself and began keying “America the Beautiful.” Then it was on to “Oh How I love Jesus” and “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus.”
Jeremiah wrapped up his limelight time with “In the Hall of the Mountain King.” Stark accompanied him on the final song.
He did great. Jeremiah knocked it out of the yard. We were impressed. Thank you, God.
Actually, the whole recital went like clockwork. They all performed so well. There were some very talented young pianists. It was an enjoyable evening.
Colton Cook was the featured senior student. Cook is graduating from Horseshoe Bend High School and will attend Jacksonville State University, where he will pursue a degree in music education and be part of the marching band.
Cook started piano lessons from Stark as a sixth grader. He’s now quite the piano player. Cook and Stark put a wrap on the recital with a wonderful playing of “My Favorite Things.”
Stark does an amazing job with her students. When our kids expressed an interest in piano, our main intent was for them to learn to play for the Lord with His help.
Both Addie and Jeremiah have already played at our church services. Their goal is to be used by God to be a blessing to the church.