Quote:

For about a dozen years a few years back, I made a practice of learning a new instrument each year (helps my writing) so it can be done.



What a wonderful thing! I was forcibly trained in piano as a kid -- hated it and could see no good use for the thing. Mom wanted me to, "... play like this guy or that guy ...". I stopped playing about my mid-20's (Mom couldn't MAKE me practice now)! I actually began to see it's usefulness when I joined my first jazz band -- I was able to create entire scores for our entire band and that was long before computing days -- it was hand-written! And once the chicks in the front row found out I could do that, I was a god!

Today, I couldn't play piano if my life depended on it. I mean really 'play'. I've had opportunity, but the desire's not there yet I guess. Maybe some day ... Right now I just want to hear some similar likeness to my trumpet days. Even if by accident -- I'll take it!

You're incredibly talented and a fantastic learner to have committed yourself as you have. I read your posts frequently. You're an excellent communicator and I enjoy what you do here. Twelve years? I doubt I have that kind of tenacity to do anything, much less learn a new 'language' every year for a dozen years! You are awesome! 12 instruments in 12 years? That must be some kind of record, isn't it?
I can only imagine how self-gratifying it must feel.

Ike