withdrawal

My teacher refused to speak to me. He was irate when I told him I wanted to withdraw from the high-scorers' concert because I needed to concentrate on my school work and prepare for theory exam; he had been difficult from the start but that is not the reason for my withdrawal. I know this sounds like a lame excuse, because of the way I wrote it:

(Dated 15/1)

XX XXX,

I am sorry to disappoint you. I regret that I will not be able to play for the high-scorers' concert.

Lessons in school went at a very much quicker pace this week and I realized that I would need a lot of time to revise my work. Also I am preparing for my grade 8 theory exam in March. This is probably the last ABRSM exam I am sitting for, therefore my aim is to pass with distinction.

This concert is very demanding since only high-scorers are invited to play. I would definitely want to play well for the concert, however, given my commitments, I am unable to cope with this, especially when I have to catch up on my school work, prepare for my theory exam, and practise for RISE rehearsals. My highest priority is to excel in my schoolwork as I am aiming to receive a scholarship to study in a prestigious university overseas.

I know that as a result of my difficulties, I would cause both you and the pianist a lot of inconvenience as you have taken a lot of trouble to make arrangements for me. I am deeply apologetic about having to send this email to you. I hope you understand my position.

Regards,
XXXXXXX


Congratulations to the others who have been invited to play for the concert and are practising really hard for it. I regret that I wouldn't be able to do the same; I can only say I'm sorry.

The past week of school has been unsuccessful for me. I couldn't believe that during mathematics lesson I took ages to understanding the concepts of circular measure. I'm definitely not weak in my studies, just that I need extra time to learn; in fact, mathematics has been my strongest subject since primary school.

And my theory exam. Grade 8 is tough indeed...

year 4

My first week of secondary 4 life. Some lessons learnt from past years' experiences:

Avoid doing last-minute homework or you know what happens next;
Avoid dozing off in class because it feels rather embarrassing to be woken up;
Form your RE groups as early as possible so that you can work with those whom you get along with;
Report to your CCA venue on time, especially if your coach/conductor/instructor is a slave-driver;
Sleep early because it is good for your health. If there is any incomplete homework, to-hell-with-it;
Avoid scoring 140 and above for an ABRSM music exam or you would probably be obliged to play for the high-scorers' concert.

Looks like I have to wait 2 more months before receiving my viola grade 8 certificate. *sigh* ABRSM takes ages to send out the certificates...