|
|
|||||||||||
The following article appeared in a local Arizona publication: Ever Dream of Playing an Instrument? By Lenny Zazick "I wish I had learned to play an instrument! However, it's too late now. I'm too old to learn". In my business I hear this sort of thing quite often. I am sad to say those people are absolutely right. If they think it's too late, it is! But "too late" isn't because of age, it's because of their belief. Sure, there are physical reasons why a person might not be able to manipulate certain musical instruments properly, but such reasons are not restricted to the aging process alone. Indeed, many young people have handicaps too. As an example, though I cannot remember his name, none of us who saw a young man without arms play the guitar with his feet for the Pope a few years ago will ever forget this incredible moment. Often, the human spirit finds ways to overcome otherwise insurmountable problems. It was this young man's strong desire, belief and courage that made it possible for him to do this. He used the tools and talents God gave him to move forward rather than as an excuse to stand still. Back to my original statement that many adults feel it's too late, I would like to offer an example of the New Horizons band to illustrate the successes countless other adults are having in this regard. Oh, you haven't heard of them? Well, New Horizons is a senior citizen band concept created by Dr. Roy Earnst of the Eastman School of Music, Rochester, New York. The concept , which has caught on with many New Horizons bands forming across the country, is helping to dispel the myth that older adults can't learn something new. Participating members include seniors from all walks of life who have a common interest in music. Some may have played a band instrument in grammar or high school years ago while others have no prior experience at all. At last year's opening of the motion picture Dr. Holland's Opus at the Scottsdale Fashion Square theater, a similar senior band held a pre-show concert. I watched and listened to this group as they proudly performed. Everyone played with enthusiasm as the audience enjoyed the music of this unique group. More and more adults are finding it challenging, exciting and ,above all, fun learning to play an instrument. If you are in this group, allow me to offer some valuable information. One of the more popular instruments is the keyboard. While people may have avoided the piano, thinking it too difficult, they readily step up to electronic keyboards with their easy-play features. Vast improvements in sound and performance make keyboards a great way to go. People can generally learn to read simple music in a few days and with a little help will improve on their own as they practice songs they know. Some thought should go into choosing a suitable keyboard that will give you the best value. For certain, there are those organ/keyboard shops that realize the potential of the senior market. They attempt to sell this group on the idea of very expensive over-priced products loaded with features the average person will not use. Just about any well-known brand of keyboard today has great sounds and accompaniment rhythms with easy-play features. If you are just starting out, you will probably be very happy with keyboards in the $400 to $1500 price range. Also, I would be remiss if I did not mention the Suzuki Omnichord. This is a strumming instrument developed specifically for those who do not want to have to read music. It can be played almost right away. With just a short explanation/demonstration or by reading its instruction book, a person is able to play chord and rhythm accompaniment to most music. The Omnichord is perhaps the easiest instrument to play. If a person likes music and has a sense of rhythm, they will be able to play it. Many seniors have discovered the rewards of music through this unique invention. Story after story, especially from seniors, supports the belief that anyone can make music if they so desire. So whether you'd like to be able to play a trumpet, violin, piano, keyboard, guitar, the Omnichord, or any other instrument don't be content to only dream about it. Instead, adopt the motto of the 1997 graduating class of Fountain Hills High School: "The key to happiness is having dreams; the key to success is making them come true."
Pop's Music
|
