MY JOURNEY THROUGH MUSIC: INSTRUMENTS AND LEARNING PATHS
Throughout my life, music has been a constant companion. As I grew, I ventured into playing a variety of instruments, each bringing its own unique challenges and delights. My journey began at a young age and has evolved into a rich tapestry of artistic expression and personal growth. Let us explore the array of instruments I have played and the paths I have taken to learn them.
Early Beginnings: Piano and Violin
Piano: My father knew the fundamental importance of a solid musical foundation. At the age of seven, he started giving me piano lessons. This early introduction laid the groundwork for my understanding of music theory and performance techniques. The piano’s versatility and the depth of knowledge it provided were instrumental in my musical development.
Violin: In fourth grade, at the age of nine, my school began offering violin lessons. My entry into this instrument marked a significant step in my musical journey. The violin’s unique sound and the discipline required to master it have stayed with me, nurturing both my technical skills and emotional expression.
Exploring with Clarinet and More
Clarinet: With the string program cut in my school by the end of fourth grade, my parents introduced me to the clarinet. Joining the band at ten years old, this transition offered me a new avenue of musical expression and camaraderie. The clarinet’s rich tone and the band’s collaborative nature provided a perfect environment for my growth as a musician.
Other Instruments: While I have dabbled in a few other instruments, such as percussion, viola, organ, cello, bassoon, recorder, ukulele, and string bass, I have developed my skills in these through more practical means. Often, I observed skilled players and picked up tips and techniques from those who were already accomplished.
Celery, Bass, and Beyond
Cello and Bassoon: My formal education included cello, which I took up in college to enhance my careers as an orchestra teacher. Although I enjoyed playing the bassoon in college band for one semester, it eventually fell by the wayside as it didn’t align with my professional career goals.
Bass: As my students progressed to high school, the need for a bass guitar became apparent in our music arrangements. I quickly adapted and began playing it, leading to a deep appreciation for its role in additive harmony and complex rhythms.
Musical Transformations and Significant Instruments
Saxophone and Bass Clarinet: In my forties, becoming the church music director opened up new opportunities to play the saxophone. This transition from clarinet to saxophone was smoother than expected due to the similarities between the two instruments.
Timpani: In my sixties, the instrumental ensemble in my church required a bass clarinet player. I took on the new role, which added a unique dimension to the ensemble’s sound. Although not a virtuoso in rolling techniques, I have continued to find joy in this instrument.
Adapting and Learning on the Go
As I consistently found myself in situations where specific instruments were needed, I learned to play them. My lessons in piano, organ, and synthesizer were formal and structured. For other instruments, I relied on observation and knowledge transfer from more experienced players. Each instrument has its own unique flavor and the skills acquired along the way have enriched my overall musical experience.
Master’s in Composition and Further Education
During my studies for a Master’s in Composition, I became heavily involved with electronic keyboards and synthesizers. Transitioning from guitar to keyboard felt natural, as the keyboard offered even more possibilities for creative expression. The use of synthesizers in my compositions provided an additional layer of complexity and versatility, leading to a significant milestone in my musical career.
Conclusion and Future Directions
Throughout my journey, music has been a continuous and evolving adventure. Each instrument I have played has taught me valuable lessons and provided unique experiences. From formal lessons to informal learning through practical application, my approach to playing new instruments has been eclectic and diverse.
As I continue to explore and expand my musical horizons, I look forward to discovering more instruments and the endless possibilities they offer. The beauty of music lies in its ability to connect us and inspire us. My journey is a testament to the joy and growth that can come from loving and embracing music.