Began playing the Fiddle at age 65. I had learned to play the Piano, years earlier, and so I can read music well. But, the Fiddle, well, it's a tough nut. The racket I could make about drove my very tolerant Wife crazy. So, began practicing very early in the morning, out of earshot (outside if the weather would permit, or downstairs behind 3 or 4 shut doors. I get up at 4:30 and practice a couple of hours, every morning, without fail. I think in 4 years I have only missed 4 or 5 practice sessions. I took a couple of lessons from a very good Violinist in town, to get the basics, but have been on my own since. I buy a music book on Amazon, and then learn every tune in it. I have 40 or 50 memorized, but can play all the rest by sight. I own about every Fiddle book there is out there. My intonation has improved a whole bunch over the past 18 months, and my touch has become much lighter. I do believe I'm getting the hang of it! I love playing the Fiddle, it's as much fun as I've ever had, and I intend to keep on practicing for as long as I'm able. Another 7 or 8 years and I'll be a tolerable Fiddle Player. In my opinion, it's never too late to start, and for you older folks out there, What the hell else are you going to be doing?
5 comments on “What else you gonna do?”
ChickenMan Says:
Monday, July 21, 2014 @5:40:22 AM
I have a friend who just turned 60. He had been dabbling with guitar for the 20 years I've known him, asking for advice and saying things like "after hearing so and so I just want to burn my guitar." You remind me that anyone can play IF they are motivated to PRACTICE. I think my friend will always be just a dabbler without putting more than 15 minutes in the morning before work. And he's single so there is no one to disturb.
I envy your doors. I have to go to the garage to get out of earshot in my tiny house!
Fremont Says:
Monday, July 21, 2014 @6:40:21 AM
My Banjo picker friend from town has been "noodling" with the Guitar for 50 years now, and all he can play are the same old Kingston Trio tunes and a few from Peter Paul and Mary. He took up Clawhammer Banjo 2 years ago and now, he practices and is getting somewhere. I guess the Guitar just isn't his deal, but the Banjo is. Go figure.
Humbled by this instrument Says:
Wednesday, July 30, 2014 @3:18:36 AM
Sorry to hear about what happened to your friend, Bob.
Rene Says:
Friday, August 1, 2014 @2:43:47 PM
Fiddle on...you've got the hard part accomplished "determination"
TuneWeaver Says:
Monday, November 10, 2014 @4:31:36 PM
Keep posting on the Hangout.. You sound like good company...
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