Gemotions

The weight of the violin felt unfamiliar in Amelia's hands. She’d always played the cello, the deep vibrations of the lower strings resonating within her. She was asked to switch to the violin, a last-minute adjustment due to a musician's illness. The orchestra was scheduled to perform at an important venue.

Her hands, usually so confident, now trembled. The strings felt thin, brittle. She glanced at the empty cello chair, visualizing the absent musician. She could almost feel the phantom weight of her instrument. She felt a profound connection to her.

During rehearsal, she struggled to hit the high notes, her bow scratching against the strings. She caught the eye of the conductor, who gave a nod of encouragement. She found herself silently urging the flautist to keep her head up after she missed a note. She was now in her shoes.