Jun
When Music Leads the Way
Last night I had the pleasure of attending my 11-year-old’s school orchestra concert. And while most of the parents seemed to thoroughly enjoy the event, I was the one getting teary-eyed (on several occasions).
I don’t know what it is about watching her play the violin that gets to me, but it does. Every single time.
Perhaps it’s the poise she exudes as she glides the bow across the strings. Perhaps it’s the simple fact that I *love* the violin (whether it’s played fast like a fiddle or more violin-like). And perhaps it’s nothing more than a mother’s pride. But while I’m sure it’s a little bit of each of those things, I wonder if it might be a little bit of regret, too.
I played the piano for a few years as a kid. My teacher taught me to play by numbers rather than reading music (big mistake). I did fairly well but I never really *learned.* Fast forward to now. I’m a firm believer in the healing power of music. It’s why I tend to listen to it whenever I’m sad or struggling with something. But can you imagine if I could *play* it myself at those same times? The feeling of accomplishment I’d have?
So how about you? Did you–or, better yet, *do* you–play an instrument?
~Elizabeth
June 2nd, 2010 at 5:56 am
awww,, those moments will always be remembered.
I just to play the clarinet and I did enjoy it until the got rid of the music program at my school. I do love music because it lets my mind flow peacefully. Now the only instrument that I play is my iPod.
June 2nd, 2010 at 8:00 am
Orcha-dorks rule! j/k if she’s reading this. My 12 y/o is a proud Orcha-dork
She also plays violin and it is fun to watch and listen to her.
I played some guitar in elementary school, but lost interest as I got older. I still have one in my office collecting dust and sometimes think about playing it.
FYI: my wife’s step father learn to play violin in his 70′s so you’re never too young to pick it up!
June 2nd, 2010 at 8:30 am
What blew me away last night was how GOOD these kids were…4th/5th graders from two schools thrown together THAT night…and they were really good. Orka-dorks? Not heard that before, Chris. But, then again, I attended catholic elementary myself and we didn’t have that kind of music program. Very cool on your wife’s step father. Makes my wheels turn a little…
Dru, do you think you could pick up a clarinet now and still play?
June 2nd, 2010 at 9:17 am
I never learned to play anything but a radio. But I have a deep appreciation for those who can and do. What always amazes me are the rockers. In many cases these are hard mean looking guys with scary hair, tattoos, bad boy images and what are they doing? Creating beautiful music and singing all from the deepest part of their souls. So how bad ass can they possibly be? I think that’s where talent comes from – the soul. If you’re not feeling it you can’t project it. So how lucky are those of you with talent, or your children for having parents who recognize their talents. Whether it be in music or something else, each of us has something to make us shine whether for an audience or for ourselves. Rock on!
June 2nd, 2010 at 10:41 am
I hear you, Mary. And I thought your comment about talent coming from in the soul is very interesting. I find myself often wondering how much is simple THERE. Great stuff!
June 2nd, 2010 at 11:31 am
I played fiddle and guitar. Wish I’d never put them down.
Two weeks ago, I attended my son’s third piano recital. And yup, I’m right there with you. The kids were amazing, I was very proud, and I mourned a little over letting my own interest in music go cold.
You can always go back and take lessons. Pick up where you left off. Or you can rest easy knowing there’s music in your words.
Sometimes, that’s the sweetest sound of all.
June 2nd, 2010 at 11:33 am
Orcha – dorks… New age speak for Bank Geeks. LOL I played the clarinet for 6 years, but not well enough to really love it. I can’t hear 25 or 6 to 4 without the trumpets blaring in my ears. The guys always wanted to play it.
Now someday, I’m getting me a piano. Hopefully before my fingers wear out…
June 2nd, 2010 at 11:48 am
Joe, I may do that one day. Perhaps you should, too. Sounds like you harbor a little of that regret, too.
Could you still play now, Lynn? If someone handed you a clarinet?
June 2nd, 2010 at 12:30 pm
As my rising 7th grader explained it:
Band Geeks – play in band
Orcha-dorks – are in orchestra
La-la-losers are in Chorus
Apparently depending on the school, some are insults, some are taken with pride. I don’t think any kid would like ‘la-la-loser’ but orcha-dork is pretty funny!
June 2nd, 2010 at 2:28 pm
Yeah, I wouldn’t like the La-La one, either. But the kids in that stuff are always the nicest ones!
June 2nd, 2010 at 2:46 pm
The thing that made me get a keyboard and learn a bit was attending the Billy Joel/Elton John combo concert—-AMAZING—watching the close-ups of the way their fingers just flew across the keys! And what an incredible concert; I think it was the best one I’ve ever gone to
June 2nd, 2010 at 2:54 pm
We had concert band… (too small of a school for an orchestra.)
Could I play? Give me a fresh reed and a few moments of private warm up and I might be able to give you a scale. I haven’t read any music in twenty years – so I think flight of the bumble bee would be out of the question.
June 2nd, 2010 at 4:43 pm
Now, see, that’s what I wanted to hear, Lynn!
And Nikki, yeah, Joel and John are amazing at the piano. Wow.
June 2nd, 2010 at 6:27 pm
No, I don’t think I can play it like I did when I was taking lessons.
June 2nd, 2010 at 11:04 pm
I played the clarinet for about 5 years. I was ok, but never good. I love to hear music and singing that brings tears to my eyes. I’m glad you had such a lovely time, Laura.
June 3rd, 2010 at 8:43 am
Thanks, Sharon. I’m intrigued by the fact that most of you ladies played Clarinet. Very cool. I think if I could transport myself back, I’d try the violin. But hey, who knows, maybe I will try it one day.
June 3rd, 2010 at 1:45 pm
Yep, I’m an old style band geek. Played flute from fifth grade on. We had the most amazing band director, Mr. Clifford Offill (Yes, it was pronounced Awful). I can still play flute, if I can get my hands on one with a decent padding job. But I’ve always, always, wanted to learn to play piano the “right” way. I can sound out things by ear, but I know NO chords. I love Jim Brickman’s piano music – that’s my “calm me down” stuff.
Actually, I love most music, as long as it has an actual melody…can’t handle the screaming stuff.
June 3rd, 2010 at 2:42 pm
I don’t like screamers, either, Shel. Perhaps you *will* learn the piano one day!!!