I’ve actually never liked the term “prodigy;” as a definition it is at least partly dismissive of the truly exceptional accomplishments of the prodigies themselves, situating their achievements in the realm of “mere” talent and inclination. To the general public, the prodigy’s exceptional performance might appear to reflect nothing more than unearned talent. Nothing could be further from the truth, of course. While talent is obviously an important factor, what’s often unseen is the tremendous amount of hard work the child has put in to developing his or her craft. No matter how talented, no child appears in this world fully formed. The often-forgotten side of the prodigy is a relentless drive to be exceptional; a willingness to push through the tedium and frustration that go along with the requisite hours of daily practice — the callused fingers, foregone play dates, drives to music class — and the burning passion to play a certain piece of music just right. Which is not to mention the role of the parents, whose dedication must at least match the child’s. After all, it is the parents who are driving the kids to music classes, buying them expensive instruments and being sure the child practices, even on those sunny summer days when it would be more fun not to.

I had the very good fortune recently of meeting two prodigies — Hadiya Knight, violinist, and Joshua McClendon, cellist— and being afforded the pleasure of watching them rehearse in the Knight family’s gorgeous eastside house. As one might expect, both Knight and McClendon are incredible musicians, but what most impressed me was the sincere dedication they both so clearly possess to be the absolute finest musicians they are capable of becoming. And they’re well on their way — since beginning their musical careers at 5 and 3, respectively, Knight and McClendon have already notched numerous performances with adult musicians at the professional level, and previous summers at the prestigious Interlochen Center for the Arts, a magnet for the most talented young musicians worldwide, attracting students from more than 50 nations. Interlochen offers the kind of education that musicians like Knight and McClendon need in order to continue to be challenged and enriched.

Knight and McClendon are playing as part of the James Tatum Foundation for the Arts 25^th Anniversary Jazz & Classical Music Showcase this Sunday, the 25, at 5:30 p.m, with a portion of the proceeds going toward scholarships for Knight and McClendon to attend Interlochen this summer. The concert takes place at Max M. Fisher Music Center, Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall at 3711 Woodward Ave. The night will also feature performances by the James Tatum Trio, Andrew Danowski, Krystal Thomas, Jeanetta Carr and Dr. Eric Lamb.

For ticket information: 313-255-9015, jamestatumfoundation.com.