High School Musician Reflects on Remembrance Day Ceremony

Grade 10 student Abigail Chandler from Vincent Massey High School has penned a poignant personal essay titled “Dissonance,” reflecting on her emotional experience performing the “Last Post” and “Reveille” during the national Remembrance Day ceremonies held on November 11. Through her words, Chandler explores the weight of these musical pieces and their significance in commemorating the sacrifices of soldiers.

Performing the ‘Last Post’

As Chandler begins her performance of the “Last Post,” she describes a wave of nerves washing over her. “No matter how many times I perform the ‘Last Post,’ it never gets any easier,” she writes, detailing the physical sensations of sweaty palms and shaky breath. The anticipation in the air is palpable, as hundreds of eyes fixate on her, making every note critical.

For Chandler, the moment transforms as she immerses herself in the music. “When I focus on just holding the note steady, filling the room with warm tone, my nerves slowly start to melt away,” she explains. In that instant, the audience fades into the background, and all that matters is the connection between the musician and the melody.

A Moment of Silence

The atmosphere shifts dramatically as the performance transitions into a minute of silence, a period during which the entire nation pauses to reflect on the impact of war. “A lot can happen in one minute. Someone can die, someone can be born,” Chandler notes, emphasizing the profound nature of this shared moment. With everyone gathered together, the silence becomes almost tangible, carrying the weight of collective remembrance.

As the minute concludes, Chandler experiences a brief interaction with two soldiers, who turn to shake her hand. “I feel the weight of the honour and duty to stand where I’m standing,” she shares, acknowledging the significance of her role in the ceremony.

Concluding with ‘Reveille’

Chandler’s performance continues with “Reveille,” a piece that she describes as uplifting yet unresolved. “It leaves the audience waiting, anticipating the final note to finish the musical idea,” she observes. This feeling of uncertainty resonates deeply, reflecting a broader sentiment about the lingering effects of war.

In her essay, Chandler articulates how the unresolved ending of “Reveille” mirrors the ongoing struggles faced by those affected by conflict. “The Second World War ended 80 years ago, but the scars of that devastation still impact people today,” she writes, highlighting that the lessons of history remain relevant in contemporary society.

As the performance concludes, Chandler contemplates the meaning behind the music. “The word ‘reveille’ means ‘to wake up,’ and maybe that’s what the composer intended all along,” she concludes. “Remembrance is not about closure but about staying awake to the lessons of the past.”

Through her essay, Abigail Chandler not only shares her personal journey as a young musician but also invites readers to reflect on the significance of remembrance in an ever-changing world. The haunting melodies of the “Last Post” and “Reveille” serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of history.