Music to My Ears: The Journey from Novice to Master

Every artist's journey is unique, filled with challenges, triumphs, and the inevitable downsides. While some pianists find a lucrative career from the very beginning, many of us struggle to find our place. This is the story of my own musical odyssey, from a confused beginner to a more seasoned artist.

My Early Beginnings

My journey with music began before the violin. I cannot recall the exact age when I picked up my first instrument, but it was around the time I started learning to draw. Drawing felt instinctive, like a lost art waiting to be rediscovered. My eager hands would scribble and doodle, not knowing if it would be considered an achievement or an indulgence. Alas, my family was not as supportive as I would have hoped.

Familial Expectations

My father believed only foolish people pursued the arts, urging me to aspire to nobler professions, such as becoming a doctor or a lawyer. Giants in our family, including a sculptor uncle and a fashion designer mother, were looked down upon for their artistic pursuits. As a result, my early drawings were often torn apart and tossed away, serving as a reminder that my passion was a hindrance rather than a potential.

Perseverance and Failure

But I never Give Up. The love for drawing and painting was far too strong to be quashed. Despite the adversity, I found my way to an art school in the US. Here, I slowly but surely transitioned from absolute beginner to a more capable artist. My journey was not made any easier by personal struggles and changes in life circumstances, yet I did not let these factors dictate my path.

The Transition to Digital

By 2008, I had already completed my traditional media like oil paintings and began to experiment with digital art. While the transition to digital was heavy, it did allow me to explore new facets of expression. However, the digital medium proved to be a significant challenge, requiring me to relearn and adapt. The early stages were rough, with a lot of trial and error, but eventually, I formed a personal style that brought me joy and fulfillment.

The Parallel Artistic Path

My encounter with music follows a similar trajectory. I have always been a musician, but the transition from absolute beginner to a good musician has been filled with trials and tribulations. Family pressures, personal struggles, and career shifts have all tested my resolve. Like with drawing and painting, I find my passion in music too strong to be stifled. I have created a slice of my soul through art and music, which I can share freely or keep hidden as I choose.

The Price of Success

While my family initially disapproved, they eventually came to understand and perhaps appreciate my passion for the arts. The transition to a successful career, however, took longer than expected. Today, I work in a fulfilling job, but I continue to find joy in my creative endeavors. Many of my artworks are not even signed, carrying old habits of the past when even a simple lie to my grandmother could save me the trouble of explaining.

Lessons Learned

My story is not meant to be inspirational. It is a reminder that the journey of the artist is marked with bumps and detours. Yet, every step, no matter how small, contributes to the overall growth. The medium may change, but the passion remains, turning novice to master and beyond.

Key Takeaways

Prioritize Passion: Your love for the art should be the driving force behind your journey. Embrace Challenges: Every step forward, even if it's a misstep, is part of the learning process. Support System: Sometimes, finding the right support can make all the difference between success and struggle. Personal Style: Forming your unique style is crucial for standing out.

My story is a testament to the workings of the artistic mind, a happy accident that has resulted in a fulfilling life immersed in the joy of creativity and expression. If you're a musician or an artist, perhaps you too have faced similar challenges. Embrace the journey and never let the doubts discourage you from chasing your dreams.