The Concert
Severely,
as befits a priest before his god,
the young cellist lifts his head
and searches the faces of the orchestra.
They are agreed, and with a nod
he flies into the opening tempest.
The singing strings thrill our hearts, catching our breath
at the sweet song.
The duet builds, violin speaking
cello and orchestra answer.
Each catch the other’s phrase
ardently responding.
The strings’ full voice
fills all the space,
hangs in the air
before our wild applause.
Lari Smith
Venice 4/94