Musical Expression: A Conversation by Ronnie Volman (15, California)

Playing the piano. Millions of possible sound combinations echoing with each touch, the black and white keys envelop the tremors and delicacy of a relationship. Harmonies capture an elation, a development of happiness as the keys consequently tumble, like a person down a flight of stairs into a low, melancholic state on the cold concrete of the musical passage. The louder the notes become, as if a person were screaming at the top of their lungs, and then immediately descend into a soft, meek, whisper in attempt to make their voice heard. The gradual pressing of the damper pedal, slurring the sounds together, a slow, sluggish mixture of melodies in one melting pot as if they were one. 

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Mordents, turns and trills, all ornamentations for the keys to tap dance, to float on my fingers in a dainty manner, playing a game like children. Finally, the melody. Making an entryway into my head, like a friend starting a conversation. Slowly, gradually, breaking into a deep communication between two people, as if the piano and I were friends from birth. Each note, each flat, sharp, and natural key convince me to converse, to reveal my emotions and gossip about my secrets. To confide in this best friend, to ask questions, ask advice. 
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Every passage reveals the beginning of a new conversation, between the piano and I. Consuming the notes with careful consideration, my hands provide a well-thought out, emotionally driven response. It is now that I open my ears, observe with my eyes, and communicate with my hands to give the audience this musical conversation, whether an argument or a friendly causerie, with the piano.