A curiously-shaped case, elongated ebonyBuckles, that when opened reveal gleaming goldNestled in velvet, radiant brass glints in twists and turnsNarrow pipes widen to a vast bellPieced together with knobs and screwsWhat will this clanky contraption do?Blowing begins, a sound like an old man coughingSpit settling in the pipes, clogging and chokingFrustration, tantrums, dismantling is in sightWalk around, wait a while, at last it calls me backWith pursed lips and perseveranceAn astounding melodious sound echoes, ringing throughthe roomNote after note, the slide swingsMy hands and mouth laboring in unityAt last I feel connected to this once awkward hunk of brassIt’s no longer just an instrument, but a portalTo my joy of music