Throughout my life, I have taken playing the acoustic piano very seriously. It has been an integral part of my identity and for the longest time I considered making it a career.
In order to become a professional, I used to compete in practical piano playing examinations held by the Trinity College of Music. The challenge that came in front of me without me ever expecting it was when I suffered a road accident and fractured 3 fingers on my right hand. The doctor stated that the chances of me ever playing the piano again we're very slim. It would be an understatement if I mention that it was one of the worst moments of my life.
At the verge of giving up all hope, my parents proved to be the best support I could ever ask for. They encouraged me to try; and when I failed, to try harder. I began my physiotherapy sessions along with 3 hours of slow, painstaking and borderline frustrating piano practice, every day. There were days when I didn't want to see the piano again, and then there were days where I noticed and improvement and it just pushed me further.
After a year, I cleared Grade 5 examinations of practical piano playing with merit scores. If I had given up the day I was at the hospital and the doctor said there was little to no chance of me continuing my passion, my story would have been over right there. Obstacles come unannounced and without warning, but not giving up and fighting against them is what makes a person stronger, and this challenge is what made me the strong individual that I am today.
#tapmi #abg