who said age was a barrier?

Written by Ilyas Khan
Published: November 18, 2013 at 10:26 PM [UTC]

At the age of 51 (actually, 51 and 3 months to be exact), I picked up a violin for the first time. 4 weeks later, and I am absolutely smitten. I wish I could say something about my playing ability, but I can say that I have the most patient and wonderful teacher, and earlier this week somehow managed to coax a tune out of the blessed violin that has put up with my screeches.

But seriously, as they say, why oh why did I wait till I was half a century old before I gave it a go. My first few lessons I was more embarrassed by having to pass parents who were younger than me, bringing their children who could be my grandchildren, into the class. Slowly but surely I managed to hold the bow with some semblance of "form", and after my second week, I started to get my fingers in broadly the right place at the right time.

I have spent a lifetime being in love with the great violin pieces. And now, finally, I had the courage to pick up an instrument of my own.

Anyone out there who has not yet tried - give it a go. After all, you can hardly be worse than me, and guess what, I have not smiled this much and felt happier for a very long time.

Lets hope my wife retains her sense of humour as I continue to practice !

(Ilyas - sent from Surrey in England)