I remember when I was three or four I composed my first song. I didn’t know how to write or read music, so I literally wrote “La la la” on a piece of paper. I wrote it in a strange sort of prose- with odd spacing- probably thinking of COURSE i would remember the melody. Alas, when I re-discovered that paper maybe twelve years later, I did not remember anything. Honestly I was SO beyond excited when I found the note and when I opened it up and read it my heart was broken by the:

La la la   la la

lalalalalalalala

lala

hahaha is more like it!

The last time I had a major work hiatus previous to this past one, I decided to use the time to exercise my mind and learn something new. I decided on the violin, and I never looked back. I practiced fervorously every day. I was quickly addicted and I wasn’t horrible. My teacher told me she was impressed. I mean granted I was like 30+ years old with previous piano lessons of which she was unaware but regardless, she told me I was doing unexpectedly well and that I picked it up faster than anyone she had ever met. And I LOVED IT. Not the praise, I LOVED playing.

The Benefits of Learning A Musical Instrument

1. Increases the capacity of your memory.
2. Enhances coordination.
3. Fosters self expression.
4. Relieves stress.
5. Creates a sense of achievement.
6. Boosts listening skills.
7. Promotes happiness in your life and to those around you.

I miss my violin, and the zen of playing it. I need to get her out of storage. Seriously.

We should all resolve to do something wonderful that placates our minds in 2017.

xoxo

QJ