What skill would you like to learn?
In my life, I’ve learned to play all Woodwind instruments except for oboe and bassoon, as well as all Brasswinds except for trombone. I’ve also learned diatonic/chromatic harmonica and auxiliary percussion. Most all were self-taught, but I was formally taught the clarinet and French horn.
Whenever I wanted to learn a new instrument, my band director would let me take the instrument of my choice home with the fingering chart for as long as I wanted. Once I learned it well enough to perform, whenever he needed me to switch to that instrument to cover shortness of horns, I was available.
My main instruments were baritone and alto sax in marching and jazz band and French horn in the orchestra. Twice I had to step in on bass drum during a parade and once I even subbed on sousaphone.
He told my parents that I was a young phenom and he did everything he could to help me get the scholarships necessary to go to the music school of my choice. I selected Florida A&M University, an HBCU, known for its precision in marching, high-stepping and incredible dance routines.
It was my original dream to become a high school band director, but I ended up an Environmental, Safety & Health Director for over 25 years.
But believe it or not, I never learned guitar. I only know enough piano to arrange music for marching bands. Not well enough to perform.
I’m 56 now and today, I only have one musical goal on my bucket list:
I want to learn to play the classical guitar.
Although I’ve serenaded many a young college date on soprano or alto sax, I’ve never had the pleasure of strumming on a guitar while sitting by a bonfire or sunset, while singing an original song to set the mood.
I’m married now, but that’s still on the table, even though my wife is stuck with me. She ain’t goin’ anywhere, so I don’t have to “win” her. Although it might be good for future points when (not if) I end up in the doghouse.
There are music stores here that offer lessons and guitars are easy to come by, whether from the same stores or the local pawn shops.
So who knows? I intend to make it happen someday. Hopefully sooner than later.
I might even be able to add bass and electric guitar to my knowledge and arsenal.
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