Recital Performance

On this date, October 20, 1978, I played a doctoral organ recital at Michigan State University in East Lansing. The day was a Tuesday. I had taught all day at John Wesley College in Owosso and drove myself over to the recital hall on campus. My family came in a separate vehicle with my wife's parents. I changed into my suit and walked out into the recital hall and played an hour recital. Because of the strenuous day, my energy level seemed to be at zero, nonetheless, I barreled through the recital with the hope that I was playing well. The audience of over 100 people seemed to enjoy the program, but in the back of my mind I thought that I had not done well. My wife encouraged me afterward not to judge anything until I heard the tape (yes, reel to reel). Later the next day I listened to the performance and was pleasantly relieved to know that my playing was very good. It proved to me once again that a well prepared performance will go well even if one is tired and there is no emotional involvement. All the good work shows through no matter if I feel it or not.