For those of you who are not 7 years old and still dreaming of learning how to play the violin, piano or any other instrument,there’s hope! I would love to share with you an inspiring article I found In the Morris Daily Herald about a couple, Karin and Jim Facko, who, late in their lives, find joy in entertaining others with their instruments, but in particular about Jim.
Though Karin has been performing since she was a child, that was not the case with Jim who started his music career much later, at Karin’s urging. He not only learned piano as an adult, but also learned how to play the violin. What he said stands true today:
“It’s never too late to learn to play music,” Jim said. “Many people think they can’t learn as an adult, but they can – I did.”
I was especially amused, and impressed, to read how they were asked if they could play dueling piano – so, being the go-getters that they are, they took it on, with a LOT of practice, and even added a drummer to their act.
Though Jim did have his wife as encourager and inspiration, I realize we don’t all have such support. I, myself, am a late bloomer musician. I love the accordion and acquired one, but never had lessons on it. After my fifth child was born, I decided to find an accordion instructor (not easy!) and take real lessons. I did locate one and in between working multiple jobs and raising five children, managed to make enough time to allow me to learn to play decently and even out on some paying gigs. I, too, wanted to learn how to play the violin and pursued that too. I now play the violin in our local church orchestra.
So, I encourage everyone who has a desire to play violin, or any other instrument, to follow their dream!
If you are even the least bit interested in learning how to play the violin but have no instructor yet, or are not living near one, or maybe you don’t want to invest immediately in expensive lessons until you get a feel for if you will like to play, then I highly recommend your getting The ABCs of Violin for the Absolute Beginner, Book 1 with CD. The author comes from a highly reputable background of extensive training in the violin. It’s a great way to get your feet wet, to see if it’s for you, without putting out a lot of money. If you are not a beginner, but intermediate, then you will love her Book 2 with CD for intermediates. Both are in Amazon and have a 5 Star rating!
You can read the whole story on Karin and Jim here
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