[TPIN] Comeback

[David Arndt]

Allow me to add a comment.  After not played at all for about 18-19 years,
when I started practicing again I decided that I could not allow the way it
"felt" to bother me.  I would drive myself insane if I did.  

Instead, I decided to simply structure a routine, do it every day *without
judgement* (very important) - and play (perform) whenever the opportunity
allowed.  Not to say that you don't try to play easily or correctly - but
you just can't get 'psyched out' over the "it used to be so easy" lament.

The psychological aspect of having once played very well as a professional,
then virtually starting over in middle age is a real challenge (no, let's be
honest - it's a *Bitch*).   But I found that adopting the afformentioned
attitude to be a big help.  

And you do improve - just much more slowly.  Think in terms of months or
even a year to see noticable physical improvement.  Not in days or weeks
like we did when we were 16 or 17.  ;-)

Anyway... That's my 2 cents (for now).

- da

-----Original Message-----
From: tpin-bounces at tpin.okcu.edu [mailto:tpin-bounces at tpin.okcu.edu] On
Behalf Of Jeff Roberts
Sent: Friday, March 16, 2007 9:36 AM
To: TPIN at tpin.okcu.edu
Subject: RE: [TPIN] Comeback

 Jeff

I will add my voice to the chorus of encouragement.  I took 30 years off and
then started back with Arbans and some Play-Along books.  I found out about
a local community band and gave it a try.  It was the best thing I could
have done.  Rediscovering the joy of making music with others was worth all
the stress and anxiety of playing in front of others again.  Now three years
later I have improved and play 1st and just love it.

One thing I found difficult when I first went to band was the challenge of
hearing myself.  It took a while to get used to others playing right beside
me and making sure I was in tune.  One of the problems that arose as well
was when another player was playing a wrong note I thought I was playing a
wrong note but after I while I realized that I was better at spotting
accidentals, key changes than some of the others.

Oh and the trombones will play too loudly to make up for the fact that they
aren't trumpets!

Jeff


-----Original Message-----
From: tpin-bounces at tpin.okcu.edu [mailto:tpin-bounces at tpin.okcu.edu] On
Behalf Of John Alfano
Sent: March 16, 2007 9:05 AM
To: TPIN at tpin.okcu.edu
Subject: [TPIN] Comeback

Jeff,
I started my comeback after a 45 year lay off.  I started in the Community
Bank about 5 months after my comeback and about 3 months after starting
lessons.  I was quite nervous about joining the band and going to the first
rehearsal.  Once I got the music (3rd part), I found that it wasn't that
difficult and I  quickly settled in.  I now play in two Community Bands and
play either 2nd or 3rd.  I would say to you don't worry about it.  You will
do fine.  Most importantly - have fun!
Good luck.
John Alfano
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