theviolinlady.blog

Tag: piano

  • Violins Make My Heart Sing

    Photo by Robert Ruggiero on Unsplash

    I never thought I’d love something more than figure sculpture, but admittedly I do. Violin playing sparks something in my heart that I can’t explain. I even liked violin when I didn’t know the difference between a C-natural and a C-sharp. I’d screech out sounds that hurt my ears as I prayed anyone listening would be okay. I’d get the occasional, “Keep practicing.”

    Today’s comments are much more encouraging. I’m feeling more confident—sometimes. If you asked me why I play I’d have difficulty explaining because it’s a mystery. It’s as though I was being led by a supernatural force that wells up deep from within. I’m not trying to be poetic it just is.

    Hitting the Right Note

    I used to be obsessed with golf, though I can no longer play due to being disabled. Hitting the ball perfectly made me love to play. There was a ping sound when the perfect swing connected with the ball. Watching the ball fly exactly as planned made every other crazy shot worth it. I went to the driving range several times a week and played every weekend—always at pace with the guys.

    Golf is extremely technical to play. There are lots of pieces to put together to play the game. My left and right brain appreciates the complexity. Playing violin is the same for me. Hitting the right note with perfect intonation feels like hitting that golf ball just right.

  • Violin-Playing Wisdom

    We all need wisdom in at least one area of our lives. So, I ask for wisdom often. I ask for wisdom about relationships, finances, friendships, and life. Why not ask how to play the violin?

    There are many religions and many gods. And a popular acceptance of the “Universe” for many characterizes the indescribable power of life. Don’t worry, I’m not trying to recruit or change your belief system. But I want to share this:

    I asked God how to play the violin after beginning lessons. God told me, “There’s time for every note and every note has passion.”

    Then, just last week, I heard, “Intonation is a choice for every note you play.”

    Wisdom is Truth

    Time seems to slow down when I play ever since hearing those words. I take every note seriously before it becomes part of who I am. I work on what notes I need to play, the rhythm, bowing, and dynamics (thanks to my amazing instructor, Jinette). And finally, I feel the music in my heart. The emotions of the music, especially when I play something I write. The music wells up from deep within my being. I feel the music in every cell of my body, as though I were made to play.

    I believe in the power of asking wisdom questions. I won’t stop now. And maybe, just maybe, I will play with passion and meaningful intonation for others. Why? Because I want everyone to experience the beautiful mystery of music. Music that soothes the soul.