Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Sources of My Identity


Not many people are lucky enough to have a sibling who doubles as your best friend; someone who understands you completely, so much so that you can easily finish each other’s sentences. My twin sister Emily has truly shaped the person I have become. Although we have very different interests, and will probably be attending different colleges next year, I know I will never be closer with someone. I know that not all twins are extremely close, and I feel truly blessed to have someone as great as Emily for a sister. We are not competitive with one another, and respect the fact that we are individuals. I have always had someone to play with, laugh with, and help me overcome obstacles at every stage of my life. Emily has helped me become the person I want to be.

Sources of My Identity

I remember the first time I touched a piano. I was four years old, and I sat at the small upright in our living room, attempting to play “Twinkle, Twinkle” by ear. I had heard others play it before, but nothing made me happier than learning to play it myself. I started lessons that year, and playing the piano quickly became my passion. I was excited to learn every kind of music; playing came naturally to me, and it served as a source of enjoyment and stress relief. I have been taking lessons for the past 12 years, and music has truly shaped the person I have become. Today, I accompany several choral groups, have participated in several piano competitions, and have had the opportunity to play in front of hundreds of people. Playing the piano has become is an integral part of who I am. Today, although I play Beethoven Sonatas rather than “Twinkle, Twinkle”, I still feel as happy playing as I did that first day almost 13 years ago. I can play the piano for hours without realizing that time has passed. Music has pushed me out of my comfort zone, allowed me to meet new people, and given me the opportunity to take on new challenges. It is something I will always be passionate about, and I know that music will continue to play an important role in my life.