Posted by blamethebanjo on Monday, May 5, 2008
I think that being tense is one of the biggest stumbling blocks for me when it comes to picking the banjo.I have others, clumsiness,lack of concentration,too much concentration, I could go on but I'll bet at some time most of us have had occasion to feel less than Earl in our playing abilities.That last sentence was supposed to be funny as I wouldn't compare myself to Earl in any real world sense ever.
Lots of times though I know that I am playing well below my ability.Little things like a microphone on a recorder can send me back to the days of the caveman sometimes.In my younger, stronger days I lifted weights three days a week.I can tell you that the mind is one of the largest factors involved in it.My attitude and the way I talked to myself (not outloud usually!) determined whether or not I could lift the set amount or not.If the thought ran through my head that I was probably not going to be able to manage it, I couldn't.
I mention this in hopes that some new picker might read this and change their thought pattern in a way that will benefit their experience of learning the banjo.Not only new pickers need to think positive but us folks who are not so new at it too.I remember listening to people play the banjo before I ever held one and I thought,well I could never come anywhere close to doing that.Instant defeat.If someone else is doing it you can too.Maybe not exactly the same but well enough.Your style,your way.
I am way down the totum pole of pickers but you know what?The little bits I accomplish make me so happy it doesn't matter.I like something John Hardtford said, Just pretend you can do it sometimes and move your fingers around and before you know it you might get something.Why not? We learn by mistakes.
I tell people who I teach art that it is not possible to make a mistake.That is why we have erasers and more paint to go over something that isn't up to our liking.It is your painting.When you say it is good,it is.There are critics on every corner.Most of them can't produce anything of their own so why care what they think?
Strive to be as good as you want to be and can be but never let the fun factor get lost.The banjo can make people happy moreso than any instrument I think.It should always make the one playing happiest.Spend time with your friend the banjo.Enjoy it and let the music come out with ease.You can get tense about plenty of other things.Quality time sould be reserved for the sheer joy of playing.Let it soothe your soul.I feel better already!
1 comment on “The Art Of Relaxation”
BryanWB Says:
Wednesday, May 7, 2008 @1:00:21 PM
Hi Darrell - Yessssss - state of mind and relaxation - how much I strive for these two things to help me in a positive way. Your thoughts are so helpful Darrell - interesting too. Sometimes wish we were in the same country and I'm sure we'd chat for hours while we're practising our picking. You always cheer me up when I read the things you have to say, no matter what it is. Please keep well, keep writing and keep picking!! Loads of best wishes. Bryan.
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