Gemotions

The band room buzzed with pre-concert energy. Sarah’s fingers danced across her saxophone, the familiar melodies bringing her a sense of inner peace. The school concert had been the culmination of months of practice. Sarah practically floated on air; she loved every second of it. She even ironed her favourite shirt.

After the performance, she felt on top of the world. Then, her music teacher handed her a folder, and her smile faltered. A harsh ‘C’ stood out amidst the teacher's scribbles. She felt as though the world had tilted on its axis, and the music that had sounded so sweet a moment ago now felt dissonant.