Dear Shiny Hunk of Metal,

I want to start out by saying thank you. You have given me so many opportunities in my life and I would not be where I am without you. We've had so many fun times together! Long practice sessions, auditions, concert, and all of that jazz. We've become a great team over the years!

We've had some pretty rough times, though. I apologize for all of the names I have called you in the past, those were said out of anger and frustration. I guess I could give the "it's me and not you" speech (No, I'm not breaking up with you). I shouldn't have blamed you for my mistakes, it usually is the player's error.

We've also had really fun times, too! All of the small ensembles we've played with other people which made us a better team and better musicians. I have learned so much from you, it's unbelievable! You have taught me patience, musicianship, control, and all around how to be a better person. You make me classy, sassy, and brassy! I also want to say thank you for making my Instagram pictures look 100 percent cooler.

Vogue.

Without you, I wouldn't have had the chance to travel to parts of the country I have never experienced and meet new friends! We've also gotten to play at quite a few conferences, like KMEA.

KMEA was a wild time. Sorry I had to leave you in a cold car.

I do have to say, you do make me look foolish, sometimes. Whenever the conductor has my section play or whenever I play in front of my friends, you probably think it would be funny to make a fart sound or just mess up completely. That's OK, though. I still love you.

I just want to finish by saying thank you for everything you've helped me achieve. We really are a wonderful team and I would never give you up for anything (part of the reason is because you're really expensive). Finally, thank you for making me a musician. I'm looking forward to looking back on all of our accomplishments.

Love,

Your Doting Musician

P.S. I promise you feed you oil and grease regularly.