Theo of Golden

In a packed auditorium at Bettye Hall, Simone Lavoie’s graduate recital begins with Theo, Ellen, Kendrick, Lamisha, Basil, and Tony in attendance. Before the performance, Theo tells Lamisha a whimsical tale about musical notes being creatures with bodies and wings that fly from the cello when Simone plays. Though Lamisha knows that the story is imaginary, she watches for these notes during the concert.

Simone begins with technically challenging pieces. His performance transforms him into an electrifying presence as he captivates the audience with his virtuosity.

The second half of Simone’s recital begins with Dvořák’s haunting “Last Mich Allein” (339), during which Theo closes his eyes to contemplate the music. Simone concludes his formal program with Saint-Saëns’s “Carnival of the Animals; the Swan” (339). When called for an encore, Simone introduces an original composition called “Fado for Theo” (340), explaining that “fado” is a Portuguese music tradition. He invites Basil and Kendrick to join him, and the unlikely trio performs the tribute. Afterward, Professor Gobelli invites Theo to the stage, and Theo reveals that Simone’s parents have secretly traveled from Washington to attend the recital. Asher unveils a portrait of Simone that will be shipped to his parents’ home.