At five, I sat on my new black leather bench and set my fingers on my first piano. The only song I knew how to play was “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”, and that was only because of the little pink slip of its notes I had somehow found and learned how to read. I remember my mom asking me which instrument I preferred, the piano or violin, and after hearing the music and watching the skills of a master’s flying fingers, I had to choose the former. Thereafter, I progressively learned to play for myself over a course of ten years, being trained through intense instruction and practice. Looking back now, playing the piano is probably the most significant event in my life that has made an impact on me. It not only gifted me with the skill of creating my own music, but also gave me confidence and the ability to achieve the other aspects of my life. 

In the beginning, learning the art of piano was just a common factor of being Asian; it was expected of me. As years passed though, I began taking part in state and national exams, certifying my ability to build my skills through each level. This required me not only to play and meet the expectations of my teacher and parents, but also the many judges and graders of the associations. Studying for the exams was year-long, never-ending, and always going from one step to the next, as each year’s criteria built and the workload increased. Having to learn the various technique, theory, and pieces gave me a strong work ethic to reach my goals. My plan was to continue taking piano until I’ve finished every level, or at least until I went off to college. This one ambition fueled the many other features I wanted to achieve, such as succeeding in school and having a good life.  But aside from ambition, learning the piano also provided me with a confidence and individuality from the rest of my peers. Performing at various recitals and honor recognitions allowed me to face my personal fear of presenting myself to an audience. It gave me the opportunity of being more open and outgoing socially, while keeping me motivated academically. This let me view the world in a much larger perspective, keeping an open mind to all views and ideas.

Playing the piano serves as a sturdy foundation and structure for me to depend upon in my life. So when I look back at when I first began, I feel grateful for my passion to start playing and my parents to support it. This single achievement has guided me through the obstacles I have had to overcome, whether big and small. It is a vital factor to the creation of the person I am today, and has become an essential portion of my life.