Music can calm the Soul

By: Barry F.

     There are few greater joys in life than to play an instrument or appreciate music.  I am fortunate enough to be a musician.  I play several instruments and I teach guitar lessons.   I think most people without a musical background don’t fully understand the nuances’ of playing an instrument.  It’s a lot of work!  One must be dedicated to the craft and diligently practice every day until are proficient enough to create your own music.  Of course, it helps to be a creative to start with. 

     However, people without musical ability can learn to play proficiently, but it will be difficult in the beginning.  The key to success is practice, practice, practice: for at least an hour or more a day.  Also, it helps if you are patient with yourself. 

     The end goal for all your hard work is to read, write and compose your own music.  Guess what!  You never stop learning!  Music is a lifelong pursuit and even a proficient musician can learn new material or arrange old material.  So get ready for the journey!  Start taking lessons right now and in a few short years you will begin to understand a small part of how music works. 

     Some tips for beginners:  Watch tutorials online to pick up the basic techniques then practice these one at a time.  Also, I recommend that you start taking lessons from a professional instructor as soon as possible.  Then you will have two methods for learning.  Oh, and finally, practice, practice practice