Last Year — Grace Thompson

“Aaron…” Mr. Anderson's voice was solemn, the boy looked up curiously. For a time they stared at one another, and Aaron frowned at his teacher's hesitance. Finally, his mouth opened, and the words slipped out, “Have you considered applying to Juilliard?” Both of the boys paused, staring at their teacher. “Really?” They asked in unison. Derek looked at his friend, “not that I doubt you Aaron but…Juilliard?” Mr. Anderson sighed and sat back. “Aaron I've heard you play, I've seen you grow over the past four years, you take every music opportunity you can get. Go home and look at your trophies and medals from competitions, think about what you've done with your passion for music.” He paused now to examine Aaron, and finished, voice calculating “I sincerely think you could be accepted.”