Numerous adults have played an instrument at some point during their childhood or teenage years. This could have been playing a guitar during recess or fiddling on the piano after completing their homework. Somewhere along the line, it’s been lost in a sea of adult obligations. Playing an instrument as an adult is a great way to recapture the essence of that little kid inside of you. You don’t have any looming recital dates or grade-motivated tests that you need to be preparing for. You can just enjoy playing the music that speaks to you now, and trying to find some notes that sound good together. It’s a great way to spend the evening.
Over time, as abilities are regained or developed, a feeling of achievement develops which can transfer to other parts of your life. The resurgence of knowledge learned as a child combined with your current understanding means that each time you play you are connecting your past with your present. Your fingers may be clumsy at first but eventually they will recall the beat and you will be able to transform the music you know into something of your own creation. This in itself teaches you to persevere and to understand that your ability to learn doesn’t end because you have got older, it has simply become wiser. Music keeps you company when you are feeling stressed and is something to share when you are feeling happy.
The best part is that you get to pick what you want to play, with no requirements or “shoulds.” You can play folk music, that reminds you of the old days, or you can play some modern stuff, to keep your brain engaged. It’s up to you. It will help you to be curious again, maybe try some musical styles that you used to skip over and even write little ditties inspired by daily experiences. Playing an instrument goes from something you used to do, to something you do with intention, knowing that with every key or string that you strike, you are moving closer to more emotional equilibrium and creativity.
Fellowship with others is also a big part of this journey. People can freely exchange advice and tales of coming back to music without judgement. The idea that others have successfully returned to music gives hope that it is never too late to come back to playing an instrument. The connection also means we can play together. As people laugh and play, the bond grows beyond the music. The group helps turn weaknesses into strengths and multiplies the joy each person feels.
Lastly, reclaiming music as an adult is a friendly reminder that there are still so many things to explore and that it’s always a good idea to stop and have fun along the way. Music feeds your spirit, improves your concentration and gives you an overall feeling of serenity after the music stops playing. By doing so, you will reactivate old interests but also acquire new ones and you will see that the music of life can be changed anytime with a bit of excitement and an open mind.