There IS Hope...

[MikeB]

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.

[Christine W]

THat's awesome keep it up. I'm not so young myself and I get discouraged by that.I find myself wishing I would have started earlier but I"ve come to realize I can't do anything about the past but I sure can live in the present. I voiced my concern to Mike Marshall after one of his and Thile's concerts and he said this about the age thing. He said most musicians in Brazil don't start playing until thier thirties and they TEAR IT UP, JUST KEEP IT UP!!!! #I thought this was extremely encouraging, thought I'd share.

[Christopher Howard-Williams]

Great story MikeB. It's always good to hear updates a year on and that sure is a happy continuation (I won't say "ending", right?).

[250sc]

Congratulations! The best part of playing music is you always have something new to learn.

Keep it up.