This Edgar Allen Poe inspired ghost story is exquisitely crafted.
The musical references in the beginning resonated with us, although we're string players, not theatrical singers. The perfection-seeking mother and the MC's motivation to please her mother was spot-on.
I won't ruin the ending, but be sure to read Poe's poem in the back, first, and even delve into some analyses of it, so you catch all the subtly-woven references throughout the story.
I'd love to teach this one, but the poem is generally taught in high school, not middle school, and the publisher / author don't offer a free teaching or educator's guide for the text. Nor is one offered for sale on TpT (Teachers Pay Teachers). If you find one, or have made one, I'd love to hear about it, and please share!