Op. 10, No. 1

Ballade in D Minor, "Edward". Johannes Brahms (1833-1897)

"Brahms was a romantic composer. The piece I'm going to share with you today is the first of four ballades composed earlier in his career, which was characterized by a very thick texture. This piece is unique in that it was based on an extramusical program, an anonymous Scottish ballad recounting a conversation between a man named Edward and his mother. The first notes you will hear pose the mother's question to her son: why is your sword covered in blood? As the dialogue unfolds, you will hear two very distinct voices: the mother asking questions and Edward making excuses. Listen carefully for the moment when Edward finally decides to confess that he has just slain his father."

They...laughed.

It's a very strange feeling to stand on a stage when the audience is laughing and you don't understand why. It feels very much like being made fun of. Now, I guess I can see why they would laugh. I tried very hard to be somber and serious, but maybe I was too over-dramatic. Maybe I was too nonchalant when I described the conversation. Maybe I surprised them too much with the last sentence. I don't know...but they laughed, and I didn't see what was funny.

It's a terrible feeling to stand in front of a crowd that is booing. About a year ago, I was graduating from high school and my church was holding a ceremony to honor all of their grads. I wanted them to cheer. I wanted them to be proud. At first, I didn't understand the noises I was hearing. I was so confused, and when I realized, I was so hurt. They were booing because I was going to Auburn, a football rival.

How silly.

It's a silly reason to boo, but I also know it's a very silly reason for me to be so upset. Just a joke, all in good fun. Maybe if I'd understood, I wouldn't have felt so shaken.

It should be noted, though, I've gone the past three days without ANY caffeine. :) I wonder if that's affecting my range of emotions...hmm...