For The Love of Viola: Taddeo's Spotlight
Warm light glints gently off the scroll,
The master lifts his bow.
As nimble fingers turn the pegs
His well-trained ear will know
Exactly when the perfect pitch,
The flawless tone he seeks,
At last streams full, unwavering,
From the instrument 'neath his cheek.
About to begin, he shuts his eyes,
A smile across his face.
He plays with learnèd care and skill
And unimaginable grace.
The melody, delicate and sweet,
Floats off taut, shining strings
Effortless and haunting
The sound makes my heart sing.
Held captive by a magic spell,
I dare not close my eyes
Until the final note resounds
And slowly fades and dies.
At length the music settles
From where it hovered in the air.
Applause erupts and floods the stage.
Viola smiles there.