MikeB
Mar-04-2004, 9:35am
A few of you might remember a rather long thread I started here a year ago or so, asking whether there was really any hope of a geezer like me (and a lot of you) getting anywhere with the mandolin, starting at such an advanced age.
I got tons of overwhelmingly warm and encouraging responses (most of which I copied and kept, and refer to often).
Well, I promised to report back later, and it is definitely later. #Now I don't have a recording contract, a CD to offer you, or even an mp.3 to make my case, but folks, I'm here to tell you that I AM A BETTER PLAYER today than I was then. #
I took all the advice about playing scales, using a metronome, LISTENING, playing with other people, and just keeping at it. #THEY ALL WORK.
I have a buddy with whom I play almost daily. #We used to sit in my living room all morning playing, take a break and walk to a local cafe for lunch. #One day we decided to take our instruments and play for the lunch crowd. #The owners love the atmosphere two old guys playing mandolins brings, and people claim to like some of our music! #We get offers to play in other places weekly. #We are actually turning down work (play). # No, of course we're not making much money at this, but that sure as hell was NOT our objective anway.
So, this is first a huge THANK YOU MANDOLIN CAFE COMMUNITY for all your kind, thoughtful input and encouragement (I learned that I am NOT the only or oldest geezer around these parts). #Thank you all for your continued sharing of valuable expertise, knowledge, and empathy.
To everyone who might be just beginning--no matter what your age or #ability--THERE IS HOPE. #Keep at it, it IS worth the effort. #
And if you get a little discouraged, just stop in at the Cafe and get a little cup of 'pickmeup.'
Thanks, Friends.
I got tons of overwhelmingly warm and encouraging responses (most of which I copied and kept, and refer to often).
Well, I promised to report back later, and it is definitely later. #Now I don't have a recording contract, a CD to offer you, or even an mp.3 to make my case, but folks, I'm here to tell you that I AM A BETTER PLAYER today than I was then. #
I took all the advice about playing scales, using a metronome, LISTENING, playing with other people, and just keeping at it. #THEY ALL WORK.
I have a buddy with whom I play almost daily. #We used to sit in my living room all morning playing, take a break and walk to a local cafe for lunch. #One day we decided to take our instruments and play for the lunch crowd. #The owners love the atmosphere two old guys playing mandolins brings, and people claim to like some of our music! #We get offers to play in other places weekly. #We are actually turning down work (play). # No, of course we're not making much money at this, but that sure as hell was NOT our objective anway.
So, this is first a huge THANK YOU MANDOLIN CAFE COMMUNITY for all your kind, thoughtful input and encouragement (I learned that I am NOT the only or oldest geezer around these parts). #Thank you all for your continued sharing of valuable expertise, knowledge, and empathy.
To everyone who might be just beginning--no matter what your age or #ability--THERE IS HOPE. #Keep at it, it IS worth the effort. #
And if you get a little discouraged, just stop in at the Cafe and get a little cup of 'pickmeup.'
Thanks, Friends.