Comments

>I feel like that's important for me as an adult violinist or violist, too. Yes, I will work toward something hard and challenging in the long run. I'm performing in church again in March, hopefully one of my audition pieces. I'll keep struggling. But I also just need to take the time to play things that are comfortable, that I really can play, that feel like skiing down the mountain and enjoying the view.

Well-put, Karen! Sometimes the never-ending struggle and the "beginner" feeling of it all gets a bit much for me. I should go take a ballet class just to remind myself what it feels like to be one of the accomplished ones again. Not that you ever master it, just like on the violin, but the years and years I put into it always kick in. Guess that's why I do the choir thing, as well. But in the end, the thing that fits my daily schedule and life is this irresistable, exasperating fiddle.

Glad you enjoyed your time off.

I like the part of your blog that Terez quoted, too. I feel the same way. A while ago, Karin Lin wrote that she enjoyed working towards a goal with her violin, but she also felt that it was important to enjoy the journey. That's just the way I feel. Sometimes I wonder whether I should include in my practice log things that I've played for the sheer joy of playing, not for upgrading my skills. The answer is "yes." That is very important.