I was lucky enough to be invited to a private classical music recital given by my piano teacher accompanied by a Russian violinist recently. It was actually my first time attending such a recital and I’d say it was quite an eye-opening experience for me as I’ve always thought that classical music and me exist in two different universe. I was absolutely entranced by the duo performing the night’s programme which was made up of arrangements from Beethoven, Tartini, Debussy and Tchaikovsky. The rendition of violin and piano was brilliantly done with great emotion and expression. I found myself at a loss of words in comparing modern age music with classical music. It was like comparing a bottle of beer with a bottle of old age whiskey.

The violinist was composed and self-assured as she guided the audience through the tumultuous piece from Tartini, Devil’s Trill Sonata, which is highly regarded as technically demanding for violin. While the pianist (my piano teacher) played the piano with such virtuosity that was awe-inspiring and bedazzling at the same time.

As I saw the pianist’s fingers glided gracefully with measured speed and ease across the piano keys, I couldn’t help but wonder, how long will I need to learn in order to be just half as good as him.