Somewhere around the age of 10 or 11 my cousin sat me down at her piano and taught me a song. I don’t know the name of it. But it’s the song Tom Hanks plays in the movie Big. It was then my desire to learn the piano was born. I’ve wanted to be a musician for the longest time. I’m sure it has something to with Eddie Murphy and Joe Piscopo. (That scene has lived rent free in my head since I was little) Moreover, my sister played the clarinet in high school and college. My husband plays the saxophone. And my children are all serious musicians -two of whom not only got academic scholarships but received band scholarships to Hampton University and Florida A & M University.
There is always music in my house. My youngest son is either playing his trombone or drum pad daily. And when my whole family is together they are liable to break out in song at any moment. When this happens, I get jealous that I can’t join in.
Two years ago, my husband gifted me a keyboard for Christmas. I committed to taking lessons – thrilled to be a part of the family fun. As the months flew by I’d spend a minute here or there pounding out the one song I knew on my piano. I even visited a music store to inquire about lessons; but never followed through.
Nearly two years later, I finally signed up for lessons. I’m not sure what the catalyst was to make me schedule my lessons but I’m so happy I did. I’ve known my music teacher for many, many years. She has taught music at 2 schools I worked at in the past. I’ve always known that when I took the leap, I’d take it with her.
Ms. Gayle is a wonderful teacher – so fun, knowledgeable, and stern. Since I’ve been her student, she has shown me great support in the piano studio and out. I get excited about my lessons and often send her videos of my home practice sessions. She texts back my corrections….which I greatly appreciate.
I want so badly to play like Liberace but I know I need to pace myself. I’m trying to avoid becoming anxious. The excitement is overwhelming. Each night when I practice, my son offers me assistance. He brings his trombone and we practice my songs together. He also explains the music to me. I’m grateful for his help because reading music as a beginner can be challenging.
I’m going to buy a metronome to help me keep the correct beat. I’ve been using an online metronome for a few weeks but I want something more tangible when I practice. Seeing that metronome arrow shift from left to right while I strike the keys will make me feel like a professional.
My recital will be in the spring. I’m gonna buy a new dress. I’m so excited.