Bach’s Last Cello

by Paula Gail Benson

sheetmusic-world.com

 

The venerable cello lounged in its case awaiting the performance. Across the room, the centuries younger violins chirped.

“I heard . . .” one began.

“Who knows if Bach played cello . . .” the other interrupted.

The cello knew but wasn’t talking.

A sultry viola twanged. “He certainly could compose.”

In a sound low as the gentlest brush across the strings, the cello’s bow whispered, “Tell them.”

“No.” They either wouldn’t understand or be envious. The cello had sealed Bach’s musical touch inside its frame so whoever bowed, only Bach played. His last cello. Even on “Jingle Bell Rock.”

 

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 This 100-word story is offered as an entry for the annual Advent Ghosts event hosted by Loren Eaton at I Saw Lightning Fall. See the other entries there. Thanks, Loren, for the opportunity!