Marcus thought about his classmates at school, the ones who hung out after classes, went to movies, had time for video games and social media and normal teenage life. He'd already given up most of that, but Harrington was talking about something more extreme, a complete dedication that would set him apart even more than he already was. Yes, Marcus said. That's what I want. Then we need to have a conversation with your mother.
Two days later, Marcus, his mother, and Harrington sat in the penthouse studio. Janet had taken time off work for this meeting, and Marcus could see the exhaustion in her face, the strain of the schedule she'd been maintaining to support his lessons. Mrs. Williams, Harrington began, Marcus has significant potential. You already know that.
But what you may not fully understand is what it takes to develop that potential into a professional career. I need to be frank with you about the challenges ahead. I'm listening, Janet said, her voice weary. First, the time commitment will increase.
Right now, Marcus is practicing five to six hours per day. That needs to become six to eight hours. That's on top of school, homework, and lessons with me. It's not sustainable without some changes.
What kind of changes? Have you considered homeschooling or online school? It would give Marcus more flexibility in his schedule and allow him to focus more intensely on music. Janet's expression hardened.
Mr. Harrington, my son, is 14. He needs more than just piano in his life. He needs friends, normal experiences, a well-rounded education. I'm not suggesting he becomes a piano playing robot, Harrington interrupted gently.
I'm suggesting we structure his education to support his goals. Many serious music students do this. They still get excellent educations. It's just more focused.
And if his goals change, if he decides at 17 that he doesn't want to perform professionally, then what? He's got an education that's been entirely built around something he doesn't want anymore. Harrington nodded. That's a valid concern, but I'll be honest.
If Marcus is going to compete with students who've had every advantage, who've been training intensively since early childhood, he needs to commit fully now. Half measures won't close the gap. It's not a half measure to want my son to have a childhood. Janet's voice rose.
It's not a half measure to want him to learn about history and literature and science, not just piano. Mama. Marcus touched her arm. I want this.
I want to do whatever it takes. You're 14, baby. You don't know what you want ten years from now. But I know what I want now.