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Do you remember the fi rst time you attempted a diffi cult feat? Perhaps you recall the disappointment that came along
when things didn’t turn out “ok,” and then of course, the swelling pride when they did. In one’s youth, there was a certain
impatience for quick results-- to get “there” A.S.A.P.
Then comes maturity, and along with it, the realization that some achievements are a slow process-- a culmination of
steady effort. One doesn’t always recognize when one has “arrived”-- often, not until it’s been pointed out by an observer.
It takes a great deal of patience and perseverance to continually work towards a goal, not always knowing if there IS a peak
to this particular mountain.
Learning to play an instrument, such as the fi ddle, is one of those slow processes. From the moment one plays the
fi rst note, there will always exist musicians more accomplished than oneself, as well as those lesser so. In continuing the
endeavor, one practices and repeats fi rst the simple steps, then gradually more and more complex ones. They begins to
realize the fruits of their labor-- songs that had previously just been a goal or a dream, are now classifi ed as belonging in
one’s repertoire. Tune by tune, this repertoire increases, at fi rst with simpler songs, followed later by those with increasing
degrees of diffi culty. As one’s love for the music solidifi es and confi dence grows, so does one’s desire to learn more.
Expanding horizons-- striving to master the next piece-- and most importantly, maintaining that constant effort.
The old cliche, “practice makes perfect” ironically harbors a myth-- there is no “perfect”-- only improvement. Everyday
changes are slight and hard to see, until all at once, something “clicks” and one is rewarded with that sense of accomplishment.
All of which serves to whet one’s appetite for bigger and better things-- fueling one’s passion to strive to achieve more--
envisioning greater and grander goals-- a self-perpetuating, uplifting cycle.
“The taste of a little success is the greatest motivator,” an expression I fi rst heard over a decade ago, rings exceedingly
true in this, and many other, spheres. So, relish the pride of your achievements-- you’ve earned it! And keep in mind that
just like the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, so does the realization of a symphony commence with a
solitary note.
Author’s Note: This column was inspired by all the “beginner” fiddlers whose musical growth I’ve had
the privilege of observing over time, and among them in particular, that of John Boles. I shall never
forget the ecstatic glow upon his face the first time he played Turkey in the Straw up to “club” speed.
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