The benefit of playing together

And OH! Haven’t we missed it. I’ve missed it more than most I feel as my absence has been so long and not due to Covid. The excuses were endless: Pregnancies, babies, living overseas, then whilst working as a classroom teacher I just didn’t have the time or the energy to go out in the evenings or give up sacred weekends, thus my personal ensemble playing passed by the wayside. But gosh, how it’s important and not just as a learning student.

Of course, a student in their earlier days of learning will benefit no end from joining a group in which to be a part. Naturally there is the benefits such as improved sight reading, faster ability to recall notes and finger patterns, discipline, dedication, being part of a team, following instruction etc… but what about the hidden benefits; better mental health, friendships, the normalisation of playing their instrument - an odd thing perhaps, but if you have one of those wavering students who perhaps aren’t sure between say, sport or music if a choice has to be made, being part of a fun concert band or orchestra or chamber group, will likely mean that they find it harder to make the decision; playing an instrument is a normal part of their lives, in fact, perhaps a really important part of their lives.

But what about us older players, those of us who are not beginners (we are all learners, even those at the very top!)? Well the benefits of coming away from practice yesterday with all neurons firing in my brain, my fingers feeling super agile and gaining mental repose (as well as a bit of exhaustion) was worth every second of the rehearsal. It’s been a long time that I’ve had to sight read something of the technicality that I had to work on on desk 1 yesterday. I’ve become a little lazy with my personal practice, sticking to what I know rather than what I need to know! My brain was having to work irregular rhythms, beasts of key signatures as well as right/left finger decisions as fast as I could…and I LOVED it!

So, if you’re sitting there thinking you aren’t good enough, or you’d be too embarrassed or you’re too old, be assured, you are not. Make THAT your new year’s resolution. There are lots of amateur groups that meet weekly, fortnightly or monthly for all levels of ability. Perhaps start looking on Facebook at UK amateur orchestras as they often have listings for groups. If you’re really not sure, try a ‘play day’ lots of amateur groups have these to encourage new players to come along and have a go. Get the leetle grey cells firing, the fingers running and make some new friendships along the way. All hail the ensemble!!

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