Page 96 of The Scientist
“Good morning, everyone,” I greeted with a smile as ridiculous as the Grinch. “We’re halfway through the semester and your compositions are coming along beautifully. The talent and creativity you’ve shown has far surpassed any of my expectations. So today, I’d like to try a little something different. I brought in a special guest to review your compositions and give feedback.”
I ushered my special guest in through the side door and had the pleasure of seeing their jaws hit the floor harder than a Looney Tunes piano drop when they caught sight of who strolled in.
I’d worked with Jimmy Blackmore a handful of times over the years, so when I heard he was in town, I couldn’t resist calling him up to ask for this favor. Jimmy was a world-renowned guitarist and lead singer of the rock band, DeRidder, and just so happened to be from the Bay Area.
With his sleek hair, dark jeans, and faded black T-shirt, Jimmy oozed rock star. He strolled casually to the center of the room, looking around at the sea of wide-eyed, young faces. “Hey, guys. I’m Jimmy.”
Boom, suckers!Bombshell detonated. Favorite teacher award this year was going to a one Miss Hadley Marie Olivier for providing a celebrity encounter of epic proportions. Sarah was always bragging about her collection of vintage Mozart musicsheets that the kids were always fawning over. Well, in your face, Samaha!
Alright, let me rein it in. I was getting a little carried away by my own awesomeness.
“Surprise! Jimmy’s the one who will be giving the feedback this week for your compositions. Who wants to go first?”
Normally it was like pulling teeth trying to get volunteers, but nearly every hand shot in the air.
“How about Sam’s group?” I said, pointing to him, his arm practically coming out of socket.
He and his partner descended the stairs quicker than aPrice is Rightcontestant to stand in front of Jimmy.
“Sam’s an engineering major and a big Eddie Kirkland fan,” I explained to Jimmy as they reached us.
“Great taste, Sam.” Jimmy extended his hand, and Sam shakily accepted. “Eddie was one of the greatest guitarists to ever live.”
Sam was rendered speechless for a moment as he fumbled for something to say. “It-it’s such an honor to meet you, Mr. Blackmore. I heard you play at Austin City Limits last year. The show was incredible.”
“Appreciate it, man,” Jimmy said kindly.
“And this is his partner, Elizabeth Warner,” I said, introducing them. Elizabeth was the music major in this group—audio engineering.
Jimmy took her hand.“Pleasure to meet you, Elizabeth.”
Elizabeth started to giggle like a schoolgirl, her cheeks reddening. Jimmy had that effect on most women. He was a few years older than me and extremely handsome with his always perfectly styled chestnut brown hair and bright blue eyes. I bet even his mirror blushed at the sight of him.
Jimmy folded his arms across his chest. “I’d love to see what you guys have been working on.”
They stood immobilized with fear. I could tell their thought process when volunteering didn’t make it past meeting Jimmy to actually having to play their work for him.
“Here, I’ll take it.” I reached out for their composition notes.
They handed it over nervously. Their composition was best suited on the guitar, so I grabbed one and started playing while Jimmy listened closely, nodding along. When I finished, Sam and Elizabeth stared at Jimmy with bated breath.
“Very nice,” Jimmy said, smiling. “The bridge is so unexpected. You guys really nailed it. The only thing I would say is that you have the harmony in C-minor, which is giving it a somewhat darker feel than I think the song intended. Maybe think about changing it up.”
Sam was nodding fervently. “Yeah, yeah, that’s a great idea.”
“Overall, it’s a great piece of writing though, guys.” Jimmy gave a quick nod.
“Thank you, sir,” Sam said while Elizabeth continued to giggle.
“And you’re an engineering major?” Jimmy asked with surprise in his voice.
Sam shook his head. “Not anymore.”
“What?” I asked, confused.
“I changed to music technology last week,” Sam said proudly, beaming at me. “I love music. I just never thought I could do it as a career… until now, that is.”
“Sam, that’s amazing.” My throat felt tight. “You really have the talent for it.”