Surprise!

Elise had her first band concert last week. We were very surprised about 3/4 the way through the program with a solo by Elise on the trombone. Back in February or so, she told me they were having tryouts for solos. I asked her afterwards how it went and who got the solos. But she just said "I don't know" with a shoulder shrug. (She was probably actually reading and didn't really hear the question.) During the concert (with 2 schools, probably 60-70 kids) the conductor announced that she had about 30 kids or groups try out for solos and she could only pick about 3. I sat wondering who it was going to be. Low and behold, towards the end she announced Elise! I was shocked. Played a little song all by herself and did a fabulous job. She said later that she thought she told us. I'm not so sure about that. I think it was a secret so I wouldn't nag her about practicing. And she clearly showed me she can do it on her own without me worrying or bugging her.