tinkling the ivories

You know how there was that really awkward moment in About a Boy when the crazy mom starts singing Killing Me Softly with her eyes closed? Well I had that same kind of uncomfortable moment today in class of all places. I walked into my last class of the semester to find that someone was playing the piano that sits in the front corner of the lecture hall. I thought that this was odd, but they were playing beautifully and although it was weird I didn't mind so much. Then a minute or two later the singing started. It was soft at first as our impromptu serenader scanned their audience furtively to gauge the reaction. Then slowly the volume increased as did the passion and enthusiasm. Their eyes closed as they belted out the lyrics. This is when I started to squirm. It was too intimate and soulful for the this room with its bright florescent lights and beige carpet. Please, please stop I thought as the hum of conversation in the room continued in spite of the heart, and occasionally ear, wrenching ballad of the middle aged Sarah Barreilles impersonator singing her heart out. I wanted to laugh and cry and leave the room all in one uncomfortable moment.