It is hard for me to believe that this fall (2019) I have been playing the violin for 50 years!  I guess that qualifies me as an official “old guy.” 

Some chronological markers are worthy of a bit of retrospect I think.  In this video I talked about the 3 most important things I think there are to learn and focus on when attempting an endeavor like playing the violin.  I WISH someone had told me these things at the beginning, or at least gently kept me on track with these in mind along my early learning projectile.  I’m sure there are other “important” points that will come to mind as well (I’ll add them as they come below). Feel free to leave me your comments below.

• Feeling of emotion during music, allowing yourself to let it go and feel not only what you are feeling, but what the music is drawing you to feel.  GO ahead and let it happen!
• Not only feeling, but rhythmic groove.  LET yourself get into it.  If you do not have the confidence, fake it for now, imagine what your favorite player would do, play, how would they move, etc… just copy that at first until it comes natural to YOU!  EVERYONE has an equal right to perform and enjoy music.
• Give some thought about what the subtle differences might mean to you between being skilled vs. talented vs. gifted and also what does it mean to you to have musical authority?

That’s enough for you to chew on I’d think!  Again, feel free to leave your comments below. and, get practicing!!

I am grateful to be able to serve.

Sincerely,

Fitz