Music enthusiasts sometimes wonder if it is easier to learn a second instrument if one is already proficient in playing one. To answer this question, I'd like to share my experience learning an instrument similar to the cello, but distinct from it. For over a year now, I have been learning how to play the viola da gamba. I have had the opportunity to play both the bass and the tenor so far.

Whenever we want to learn something new, it is natural to think about where to begin and ask many questions about the resources we need to bring our idea to fruition.

At the age of nine, I recall taking a test in a classroom at the Music Conservatory to determine if I had a musical ear. The professor played some musical tones and asked me to sing the tones he played on the piano to see if I could match the sounds. Then, he played some varied pitches in both the low and high registers. He asked me to determine which ones were lower and which were higher.

As much as we love playing our instruments and performing, there can come a time when we might feel overwhelmed by all our responsibilities. We want to accomplish all our tasks, but there seem to be not enough hours in the day. We overwork ourselves, and our motivation drops down to practice our instruments or even perform.

I have some encouraging thoughts this week for the music student. Once in a while, we all need someone to remind us to be brave and perseverant in our work. Here are some helpful thoughts you can refer to when you need positivity.

I have been away for the past weeks, playing some concerts with different orchestras. I am back with some insights I have gained, as there were many learning moments during this time.

Years ago, I spent my vacation time traveling by car through designated States like Arizona and Oregon. I had specific ideas for spending my time driving through these States and organized everything beforehand. I ensured I got to experience worthwhile sites that catered to my interests. Those adventures did not include musical performances at the time. But my trips led me to parts of the world only found in fairy tales and enchanting stories.

What happens when we have been working on a particular piece for quite a while and have not experienced significant progress? What should we do when a piece does not work out after six months of playing? We have done everything, but there is a standstill.

It happens often when a musician is unhappy with their musical instrument. Is there a perfect instrument that can satisfy all the needs of a player?

Student Preparation

I have always discussed practicing habits and perseverance. However, one aspect is vital in learning how to play an instrument—the teacher. The job of a music teacher is no doubt challenging. What does the work of a music teacher entail?

Recently, I came across this question about our takeaway from classical music. Is there anything we can learn from it? And is it necessary at all to care? As a listener or a performer, I can provide my understanding of this question as I am both. While my comments in this post might be a minuscule fraction of what we can learn, they shed some light on a musician's point of view of some of the things one can benefit from classical music.