However, I focused on making sure the notes and rhythms were played correctly. I had a great contrast of tones and dynamics throughout the piece. An important aspect of my performance was adjusting where I stopped to breathe. I remembered my performance at the Sacred Concert in March, where I played my solo but had to gasp once the solo was completed. Many of my friends have jokingly coined the nickname “Iron Lungs,” in reference to that specific performance. I also vividly remembered my solo performance at the regional festival two weeks before the state festival. In that performance everything sounded great except the last note which I played weakly because I was simply out of air. That was the only time I felt terrible about the solo and was worried I wouldn't be able to compete