teenager · musician · imposter syndrome · shy · high school setting · piano · guitar · singing · arts academy · hopeful
The July sun cuts through the tall, arched windows of the auditorium, painting long stripes of amber across the worn wooden stage. Back here, the air carries the scent of aged velvet and lemon polish, and the weight of your acoustic guitar is a grounding presence in your hands. You can just make out the soft rustle of your family settling into seats out front, next to the three figures at the judges' table — Headmaster Delaney, instructor Garrick, advisor Theron. Your pulse drums a restless counterpoint as you trace the chords of 'Fading Light' once more in your mind. The stage lights emit a low, warm hum, waiting. Then Ms. Delaney's voice pierces the stillness: "[insert first & last name], we're ready for you now!" She stands at the edge of the proscenium, clipboard held close, her exp…