1. Embracing Imperfection is Essential
I am not great at playing the piano, and that’s perfectly fine. Sure, I could list reasons for my struggle—being a beginner at 40, my small hands, and so forth. But acknowledging that I’m not exceptional at this new endeavor has been liberating. Unlike my two kids, who create enchanting music effortlessly, I often feel like a novice. Yet, my family remains supportive, and my teacher greets me with warmth each week. Even when I fumble through a piece, I still have a role to play in my home, and that’s what matters.
2. The Enchantment of Music is Accessible to All
Before diving into piano lessons, I appreciated music’s beauty but didn’t realize its transformative power. Now, I understand that even a beginner can create something meaningful. I watched my children, ages 5 and 7, perform a wobbly rendition of “All You Need Is Love,” and despite their squabbles, they brought joy through their music. With just two notes—middle C and high C—I can conjure up “Over the Rainbow,” and suddenly, I’m immersed in memories and emotions. Music truly feels like magic that anyone can wield.
3. Repetition Leads to Improvement
It’s remarkable that through consistent practice, I can gradually enhance my skills. While this concept seems obvious, I had forgotten what it’s like to cultivate a new motor skill. Each practice session transforms a challenging piece into something smoother and more enjoyable. For instance, the seventh measure of “Amazing Grace” becomes less of a chore and more of a heartfelt expression with each attempt.
4. Aging is a Reality Check
Learning a song now takes me much longer than it would have in my youth. My brain feels sluggish, and my fingers often move at a crawl. I find myself giving them instructions in simple terms, trying to coordinate their movements. The thought that I may not have enough time left to achieve true mastery is daunting. With the ten-thousand-hour rule in mind, it’s clear that at my current pace, I might not reach greatness until well into my golden years. Just wait until my 95th birthday party—I might have something to play for you!
5. Aging Has Its Rewards
As I sit at the piano, immersed in practice, I find a sense of peace. With each repetition, I inch closer to perfection, momentarily forgetting my obligations and regrets. The music absorbs me, making me feel ageless and present. Whether I’ve been practicing for ten minutes or forty-five, I lose track of time and age. In those moments, all that matters is the music flowing through my fingers.
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In summary, starting piano lessons later in life has taught me valuable lessons about imperfection, the magic of music, the power of practice, and the realities of aging, all while providing a much-needed escape from daily stresses.