Read the story The Heartbeat of New York. Music was at the heart of New York City. Whether listening to a street performer or hearing the cacophony of taxi horns, visitors and residents could feel the city's rhythm. Pedro was a New Yorker who loved to dance to the music of the city. He stomped out a beat with his feet, clapped a rhythm with his hands, and sang as he waited for the subway. Often, Pedro listened to street musicians performing on guitars, saxophones, or drums and wished that he could play a musical instrument.

One day, Pedro learned that Carnegie Hall, a famous venue for musicians, was holding student concerts. Children would spend the year learning about instruments, orchestras, and how to play the recorder. Then, they would perform in a massive concert at Carnegie Hall. Pedro was beside himself with excitement, as he realized that his ambitious dream would come true!

Pedro's father registered him in the program, and Pedro began to practice the recorder every day. At first, Pedro found the recorder very challenging to learn. He kept blowing too hard, which made the recorder squeak, and he kept forgetting where to place his fingers. After one practice session, Pedro slammed down his instrument and dashed to his room. When his father arrived, Pedro explained that the recorder was too onerous, so he had reversed his decision and would not be participating in the concert after all. Pedro's father lowered himself onto Pedro's bed, looking troubled.

"I know how excited you were about playing at Carnegie Hall," Pedro's father said. "It's an amazing opportunity, and I would hate for you to give up because the recorder is hard to learn. In life, many things are difficult, but you won't know all that you are capable of unless you try. Right now, you need to keep on trying, and eventually, it will get easier."

Pedro was not happy about his father's advice because quitting was easier than trying, but he agreed to continue practicing. After weeks of practice, Pedro began to notice a difference. He was able to play the low notes without squeaking, and his fingers knew which positions they needed to be in to make each note. Playing the recorder became fun!

At the end of the year, Pedro proudly took his place at Carnegie Hall beside other young musicians. When the conductor lifted his baton, Pedro raised his recorder to his mouth, along with hundreds of other students. As the orchestra began to play, Pedro heard his recorder join with the others to create a beautiful melody. There, in Carnegie Hall, Pedro felt the heartbeat of New York.

What is the theme of The Heartbeat of New York?

a
Playing any type of instrument can be rather difficult.

b
If you never give up, your dreams can come true.

c
When you play the recorder, you will hear squeaks.

d
Music has the power to encourage others to dream.