John Pierce

Now at 5 years after returning to violin after a 35-year absence. During that time, I've played in community orchestras, done some chamber work, been on my current orchestra's board, served on the music selection committee, and started building a violin.

The results when I first started again were disappointing for me, although it still touched that "music spot" in my soul. Targeting development in different areas has helped a lot, especially in sight reading. Working on the "big" concertos and show pieces has been a great way to push forward in technique and musicality. In my case, I now have been able to advance to moments of adequacy.

For those returning to (or starting) violin late in life, let me encourage you to hang in there, making small improvements every day. Over time, those small improvements add up to making you a passable musician.

Blog Posts

2011: Feb. Dec.