Thursday, April 23, 2009

Sensational Sarah

Sarah is my sister-in-law, but I've known her since before her 5th birthday. I've watched her grow into one of the most amazing people I know. She is thoughtful and sensitive and humble and smart and fun and I couldn't love her more. She's truly one of my most favorite people in the world. Aside from all that she's just so darn beautiful!


Sarah and her teacher, Jack Ashton.



Sarah is only 15 and she is a VERY accomplished violinist. She's incredible, it truly is a gift. She's a sophomore and in the Concert and Chamber orchestra's at her high school. This week she performed a solo concerto with full orchestra.


I know this is a long clip (8 minutes), but if you are patient you can see my favorite parts at about minute 3 and then again around minute 6. Sorry the video gets a little shaky- it's hard to keep it still while crying and/or clapping.

I also want some special attention paid to my mother-in-law, Mary, who has raised such a musical, talented family. Her dedication to her children's education is phenomenal. All of her ten children play the piano, and many of them play additional instruments. Some have been things they just tried for a while (like the clarinet, bass, and trumpet) and others instruments they continue to play in their adulthood (including violin, viola, cello, piano and organ). But whether is was sports, academics, singing, or instruments she has always been an unfailing and selfless support.

I'm so proud of you SARAH!

11 comments:

skcoe said...

It's like watching my sister dance. Couldn't make it without screaming my head off and crying!

speedymelh said...

Amazing!! She really is gifted!! And it's Jack Ashton. He's the section leader for the second violins in the Utah Symphony and I am guessing that she goes to Olympus...Right? Anyway, truly amazing!!

Unknown said...

I can't get the video to load for some reason...and I really want to watch it! I could use a good cry! I'll try again, dangit!

The Fullmers Four said...

I am so glad you posted that! I love seeing what my cousins are up to! She is so gifted! She is amazing. It makes me sad that I have lost touch with so many of my extended family members. I am glad that I can peek into what they are up to through blogs. Thanks!!

Jocelyn said...

How wonderful she is. She looks so happy to have family around who will clap and clap and scream and just make her feel so special. She is very talented.

brermomo said...

Thanks so much Michelle for posting this. I heard about it, and was really wishing I could have seen her. Isn't she great!!! And so cute. What a lot of practicing she's done to get that good! Amazing!

mma

Hey, and I have to say a little something to Mary who's practiced with and driven to lessons and worked with her all these years. Good job, Mary!

Marisa Jean said...

I can't say amazing loud enough. She definitely has a future ahead of her. Should I get her autograph now???

granny.yospe said...

Sarah us amazing! And, I am wondering how Mary (Mom) got youto practice all those times to be so amazing! Very fun clip to watch...Michelle, I hope you share all these comments with Mary and Sarah! Whew! It made me tired just to watch her fingers flying. Fabulous!

lightningeyes said...

Thanks so much everyone! I was so glad to get the chance to play at that concert. Thanks Michelle for putting that video on for everyone to see!

Rick said...

Wow, Sarah! That left me speechless. I've performed several times with Jenny Oaks-Baker (who is an astounding musician) and I kept thinking of how your performance reminded me of hers. Anyone would be lucky to perform with you.

And on a creepier note, I know I'm twice your age, but in 3 years (when you're 18) will you be busy or can I call?

Nick and Laura said...

Wow. That was delightful! She did an amazing job! It made me cry. Not hard to do, but that doesn't mean much. I loved all eight minutes and twenty-nine seconds. Way to go, Sarah! And, Michelle, could you be sweeter and more complimentary to your in-laws? It means more than it would from other people because I know that you really mean it. You are an amazing (and talented) addition to their family!