Taming the Cello

Well, I’ve officially embarked on my new adventure of learning the cello. My friends and family are excited because many of them have heard me talk about playing the cello for years. No bones about it though- I am a beginner. My dreams of being a prodigy are indeed only that- dreams.

Earlier today my best friend asked me how many lessons I was into it. I responded “just a few.” He said, “So you’re about 3 weeks away from being in the Denver Philharmonic?”

Haha. Well- if the Philharmonic wants to have me join in on a rendition of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star I might be able to participate- but doubtful! My teacher plays cello in the Denver Philharmonic (Kenny Martin) and I all ready wonder how he puts up with me.

When I had my very first lesson he said something interesting to me regarding adults taking up a new instrument. He said that adults have a lot more hangups in the way that we are a little more afraid to mess up and fail while children are often gung-ho on something new- generally unaware of the embarrassment of hitting a sour note or not improving quickly enough.

It’s true though. Somewhere along my lifespan so far, I’ve lost a bit of patience with myself. I want to be better- faster. I don’t want to struggle remembering how to read music. I don’t like striking a note on my cello that makes me cringe because it sounds like I”m torturing a cat. I wonder how many times I have to play the same song before I don’t mess it up.

Another thing I’ve noticed since beginning my lessons: I haven’t actually stopped and MADE TIME for a new hobby in a really long time. It’s been a challenge reminding myself that it’s time to practice. Since it’s something I want to do I don’t complain to myself at all. It’s just a matter of making the time! I guess I didn’t realize how much I have going on and how tired I am when I finally get home at night. I’m learning to fit it in though- because after all- it is something I’m enjoying and something I’ve wanted to do for a really long time!

I’m realized I’m learning much more than just the cello. I’m learning how to be patient with myself again and I’m learning how to create time for something that is just for me. It’s slow-going but I’m going to keep at it! And it won’t be long before I can blast out something other than a squeaky bedtime song.

I hope!

Thanks for reading,

Sam