Ghost Train RadioA Year Learning 7 Musical Instruments
While I had played guitar and keyboards in a couple of bands in the 80’s, at that time I was seriously limited as a beginner. I developed writers block because I only tried a little to learn more than just the handful of guitar chords and also did a little site reading at the piano. I took 2 or 3 music classes at Chabot College and do got straight A’s, but once the kids arrived, that was that.
Fast forward 30 years later and I’ve now played 7 musical instruments on a regular basis – something nearly every day this past year. At the same time, I’ve been learning music theory, which is a tremendous help. Understanding the Circle of 4ths and 5ths, Intervals and chord theory makes a huge difference.
I haven’t had one day of writers block because with 7 instruments, there is always something new to learn. My best songs seem to happen as I’m learning and becoming a decent musician.
Couple all of this with Cubase and music technology, and because I record myself playing every day, that has forced discipline.
Its been a wonderful year, and while few will ever hear my music, I’ve been doing it simply for the joy of it and I have had some of the best fun ever this past year.
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