Music and Mental Health: In A Student's Words

Why do music? That was the question running through my head as I stepped through the doors of my soon-to-be middle school. The decision I had to make, even though it wouldn't be the biggest in my life, felt very challenging at the moment. Luckily, I made the best decision, the choice of music in my life. My name’s Zayne, I play the cello and I am currently in the 11th grade. Coming into middle school, I already had experience with music, but never really found a deeper connection with it. My music journey wasn't just a one-stop journey, rather it was a development that has and will help me all through my life. 

My first real exposure to music was through my first instrument, the keyboard. Rather than playing the “more sophisticated” piano, I started my journey playing my light-up keyboard. I started playing the classics, hot cross buns, Für Elise, etc., but what got me most interested was a book that my mom bought me - ABBA Classics. The book had many different songs, and even though they were way above my skill level then, I would try to play these pieces, slowly attempting the melody of  Gimme! Gimme!Gimme!  and Dancing Queen. Even to this day, I have this book sitting near my piano, and I can finally echo  I Have a Dream through our house. 

The biggest directional step in my music journey happened in 6th grade. I had previously played the piano, but coming into middle school, that wasn't an option for me to choose to play in our music program. Going into our open house for music, I had been dead set on playing something like percussion, being able to be one of those insane drummers who are able to throw their sticks in the air and still keep everything on time. Even as I was in our orchestra room, my mind was wandering away, dreaming of the hard rock music that I thought I could play. My mom dragged me over to the different instruments, trying them out and giving each of the instructors a cheesy smile, enough to try and show some content with the instrument, but very obvious to them that I would not be playing it. My last stop, however, was when I listened to Tarantella. My gaze shifted over to the cello, and I knew that I wanted to try this instrument. From that moment, I knew I had fallen in love with this delicate deep-sounding instrument. 

Coming into high school, I continued both my piano and cello, continuing through COVID-19 and finding myself drawn to the new music that I would receive. However, while playing the music, it was almost as if all my music had no emotion. Until this point, learning about music had always been about getting everything correct, but not putting my heart into music. I wish I could say that there was a switch that I turned on that allowed me to put it in my music, or a specific piece that I listened to, and then magically everything worked, but this is where there isn't really an end to my music journey. Every day, my music changes its shape, adding a little bit of my life into my playing. Through my rough times, music has helped me get through, by just picking up the cello and learning new pieces, or listening to my favorite music on Spotify. 

Throughout my life, music has always had an impact, whether I'm playing in an orchestra with my friends, or being able to learn different music. In my school, I'm known to start singing, not well, while I am playing for my tennis team, keeping me calm and centered. Music was able to bring out the best in me, and learning different instruments has made me the person I am today. I have grown through my experiences with Tritone Youth Orchestra and my private lessons with Zach Lavender, and I wouldn't give it up for anything in the world. The sessions help me convert my raw emotions into something truly melodious. I look forward to growing deeper and using my music to root me in life.

Absolutely No Wrong Notes this Summer

Summer Music Camps are without a doubt an amazing opportunity for kids
to improve a skill and pursue a passion but their benefit goes way
beyond that! Research has clearly linked the study of music to
superior academic performance, increased confidence and psychological
well being. That's because, according to board-certified neurologist
Lara V. Marcuse, MD, the co-director of the Mount Sinai Epilepsy
Program at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai "Playing an
instrument, in particular, engages every facet of your brain. If
you’ve ever looked at a sheet of music, it’s basically like reading a
different language. Your brain goes through a bunch of hoops to figure
it out... When you sit down to play the keys or strum a guitar, your
brain is hard at work trying to tell your hands what to do. Musical
activities trigger the auditory cortex (a.k.a. the part of your brain
that helps you hear)." Of course you probably knew the gist of how
music is categorically good for our brains but why else would we want
to get our kids enrolled in a week or two of camp? Music by itself is
enlightening but with friends it is life changing — I know it was for
me!

So what about this "Absolutely No Wrong Notes this Summer" teaser?

That can't be right? Well, I truly believe it on three different
levels... there truly are "no wrong notes" and at our music camps we
find it's a great way to lower the kids' stress, increase the fun
factor and ironically make more beautiful music in a week than most
people think is possible. So here are three perspectives on "no wrong
notes."

1) Most generally speaking, music is about creative expression and
while there are patterns and scales musicians and audiences have found
over time to be very appealing, history has taught us that art in
general and music specifically refuse to be limited by convention...
and the "right notes" are only determined by the player and the
listeners. So let loose!! Have fun with your instrument and define the
notes and tones you want to hear... No judgement!

2) Even if you don't like the sound you're making or don't feel you're
playing the "right notes" at any given moment, the pursuit of tone and
creative expression in and of itself is the path to self discovery
with all the intellectual, physiological, psychological and social
benefits that accompany that journey. Is that unusual note really so
"wrong" then?

3) Finally, I will quote two famous musicians who agree with this
statement. Thelonius Monk: "There are no wrong notes; some are just
more right than others"  and  Miles Davis “Do not fear mistakes. There
are none." Or as a former teacher of mine quipped to me paraphrasing
yet another musical legend... "You didn't play a wrong note, you just
played it at the wrong time."

This summer get your kids enrolled in a music camp with a program that
emphasizes positive teaching centered around inspiration, motivation
and fundamentals. Let them experience the magic of making music while
making friends. Would you believe we've watched dozens and dozens of
kids over the years make more progress in one week of summer camp
mornings than in an entire semester?! Nothing is more conducive to
creative, social endeavors than a week of summer!

Check out the four different types of summer music camps and click on the flyer thumbnails to read about each one. We have limited space for each one, so we encourage you to sign up soon.

Mind Control and Other Musical Powers.

Of course I’m kidding… but music and good musical performers really do have an amazing and profound physiological and psychological impact on the audience. It turns out humans empathetically synchronize with a performer emotionally and physically, allowing them to experience something bigger than life in this controlled artistic environment. The ancient Greeks knew it and from the Greek kathairein (cleansing), catharsis emerged: “A purification or purgation of the emotions… primarily through art.” according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. 

But that’s ancient history and for those more interested in modern science we turn to an article on the National Institutes of Health website written by Andrei C. Miu and Felicia Rodica Balteş in 2012, ( www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3265492/ ) “In the last decade, there has been a surge of interest in music and emotions. Psychophysiological studies have uniquely contributed to the idea that music listeners not only perceive feelings in music, but also experience genuine emotions, which are associated with congruent physiological, behavioral, and subjective changes. Theories from cognitive science have argued that empathy plays an important role in music-induced emotions, emphasizing either emotional contagion or cognitive empathy.”

The authors elaborate, “Scherer and Zentner explained how cognitive empathy may be one of the central routes (i.e., involving the central nervous system) by which music induces emotion. Based on the performer's emotional expressions (e.g., colors of voice, facial expressions, gestures), listeners may presume that the performer experiences emotions and, by understanding that they are related to imaginary events, they may feel safe to deliberately respond with similar (even negative) emotions. The impact of musical performance may thus be related to empathic accuracy, which depends both on the target's emotional expressivity, and the observer's empathy. In addition, musical experience may be like an “affective sandbox”, by allowing listeners to pursue emotion exploration and hypothesis testing in safe environments.”

 All this to say, “…we can use empathy to enhance aesthetic emotions in our everyday life, while we are watching live or recorded musical performance. Musical performance offers a context in which listeners seek to resonate with the feelings of the performer in relation to the music…” 

I talk about this phenomenon frequently with students and as a teacher of any musical instrument it’s so much fun to kindle this fire of artistic expression in the students we teach. In more ways than one, music goes way beyond the notes and is perhaps the purest expression of the human spirit in a language that transcends, connects and makes us feel as one. Whether on violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, ukulele, voice, piano or drums, once we find our voice, we can share what’s in our heart: the gift of music, of being human -together.

Starting Violin, Viola, Cello or Bass? Rent Don’t Buy!

When you or your child become inspired to start an orchestral string instrument, you will almost immediately face sticker shock noticing the prices are an order of magnitude higher than you probably ever imagined. Yes, quality violins, violas, cellos and basses (all part of the violin family) are extraordinarily expensive! They cost thousands of dollars minimum and can potentially be more expensive than cars and even houses! …And unfortunately, cheap alternatives will almost invariably not serve you well. 

This is a bad news, more bad news, good news situation: Quality violin family instruments have always been expensive and they keep getting more expensive but that also means you can expect well-chosen examples to hold their value and even appreciate in value. So at least you’re not dumping your money down the drain! Unfortunately though, even with the silver lining of appreciation, it’s a huge cash outlay to get started. The solution for most is to rent with a “rent-to-own” program from a reputable violin shop (not a general music store).

“Rent-to-own” programs have become increasingly commonplace and many feel they are definitively a win-win solution to a potentially cost-prohibitive pursuit. Rental programs come in all flavors though so it’s important to know the specifics and/or talk to a teacher about her/his recommendations. A few guidelines:

• A good rent-to-own program should provide a quality instrument suited to the student’s size and level at a reasonable monthly price and should include instrument insurance. 

• A student should be able to trade it for a bigger/better instrument as she progresses. 

• The shop should have a set fee structure defining upgrade options and most of the monthly rental payments should go toward credit for eventual purchase of an instrument. 

• The student should be able to choose the specific purchase instrument at the time of purchase so as not to get “stuck” with the rental. 

So why is it so important to locate a small, local, violin-specific shop as opposed to the closest big-store chain? Don’t they offer similar programs? On the surface, the larger stores seem quite competitive but up close, there is no comparison. Violin family instruments require incredibly high-level, specific set up and frequent maintenance to be resilient and perform satisfactorily. General music stores can’t afford to keep craftsmen on staff to support such a small part of their revenue stream. Reputable violin shops employ lifelong craftsmen, luthiers who provide the highest level of support for setup, pre-purchase inspection, maintenance, repair, and restoration. Additionally, the level of the shop defines the level of the inventory available for eventual purchase. At that time, a “rent-to-own” program will prove to be only as valuable as the quality of its inventory.  

Call us or write to us anytime for specific recommendations or more detailed information. This is a huge topic and of course there’s not one best solution for everyone. Though renting is often the best way to go, purchase can be far a superior choice in some instances. In any case, we always look forward to talking with those who have recently embarked on the exciting journey into the world of strings. The craftsmanship and performance of violin family instruments have defined a pinnacle of human achievement for over half a millennia and one would be hard pressed to find a more worthwhile pursuit! 

Beyond the Music

Last week, the parent of a longtime student told me that over the last decade, I had played a vital role her child’s life. Humbled and of course deeply honored, I reflected on the hundreds of students and families we’ve worked with over the years at our school. Reminded that music and music education goes so far beyond notes, rhythms and techniques, I began to think about what other benefits private, weekly lessons may provide for the development of a child and the balanced life of an adult in today’s world.

It’s not a novel concept that a teacher can fulfill a role beyond the narrow confines of her specific educational field and there are certainly other professionals more specifically tasked with clients’ health, well-being and non-academic development. However, the teacher-student dynamic in the context of weekly or twice-weekly, one-on-one lessons proves much more profound than most realize. We are so thankful that most of our students study with us for over five years and as we’ve worked with them through notes, rhythms and techniques we’ve also studied self-expression and human connection through music week after week. Is it surprising then that the human element is in fact so strong?

For some students our role perhaps remains exclusively musical but I encourage any prospective student and family to keenly evaluate the non-musical benefits of having a well-chosen coach, mentor and teacher in their life. On a human level, teachers pass along values and priorities consciously and subconsciously each lesson each week. Through the methods with which we choose to motivate and inspire, set expectations and establish accountability, handle challenges and reconcile with failure, we shape lives. This is why teachers are not simply service providers but role models, mentors and sometimes counselors.

Music is our art and teaching is our vocation, but the people we help along the way define our purpose and make our jobs meaningful. In a world that is increasingly separated and polarized, music can bring us together if those behind the music see humanity as our greater responsibility. We are truly thankful to our teachers for their pursuit of this greater goal and we truly value our students and families beyond words.

Getting a Piano? What do you actually need?

Purchasing a piano can be a complicated decision and there’s simply no such thing as a categorical “best choice.” Instead we want to look for the unique best choice for each of us. Factors that weigh in are primary use, size/portability, cost/value/investment, quality/longevity/required maintenance, tone/feel and aesthetics/connectivity. This piece will outline these criteria and hopefully answer your questions about where to start. It is not meant to be a buyer’s product guide but instead a paradigm for how to begin research on the topic.

Primary Use:

Will you use the piano for practice only, just to improve your technique, or to sound truly beautiful and expressive for yourself and others? Do you want a piano (digital or acoustic) or a keyboard (always digital)? They can look similar but they’re actually very different. There is actually some overlap in the labelling and construction of keyboards and digital pianos so some keyboards can work as an alternative to a piano for beginners or even intermediate players so long as they have weighted keys and damper/sustain pedals. However, most companies distinguish keyboards from pianos. In the studio, keyboards, utilizing sound libraries, aid artists digitally recording and composing. On stage, performers and audiences love them in the context of modern and electronic music. Pianists though require their instrument to have a certain very specific feel and tonal capability which entails weighted key resistance, hammer-like mechanical key action and the ability to create dozens of variations in dynamics and tone color.

Size and Portability:

Keyboards come in various numbers of keys but pianos are usually 88 keys and that’s important. If space is a deal breaker there are 61 key digital pianos and keyboards that, while not ideal, can work for beginners and intermediates though. Beyond the key count there’s a huge range in size and portability for digital pianos. A portable, high quality, digital piano (that sits on a stand and can be put away in a case) can often be a good practice solution for pianist’s living in tight quarters and you can practice with headphones when needed which is helpful too. If purchasing a portable, digital piano be aware you’ll usually need to purchase a quality stand and sometimes a compact full-range keyboard amp/speaker separately. Moving up in size you have compact digital pianos that are self-supporting and include their own speakers. Next you’ll find pianos built into cabinets, acoustics and digital pianos labeled as spinet, console, studio, and upright depending on their height and internal layout. Finally, we have baby grands (acoustic and digital) and grand pianos ranging from 5 feet to 9 feet in length. The general rule to remember with both digital and acoustic is that larger sizes of comparable quality will almost always yield a better sound and range of expression. Bigger pianos aren’t just louder, they can actually play both louder and softer and permit a skilled pianist to access a myriad of colors and tones.

Cost, Value and Investment:

When you research the cost of acquiring a piano, you’ll find the cost range spans from under a thousand to over $100,000!!  What you want to spend should of course be based on budget but also within context. Cheaper is not always more economical and long term economics favor, higher quality instruments which can last for decades and even generations with some instruments holding their value extremely well. In those cases, fine pianos become part of a family estate. Of course digital and acoustic pianos can be purchased new or used and while new provides a turnkey process, used pianos can provide great value as long as a prospective buyer hires a professional piano technician to inspect potential pianos. Local piano dealers and teachers can usually refer you to reputable tuners and technicians.

Quality, Longevity and Required Maintenance

Pianos can potentially be money pits and a beautiful looking piano that “plays all the notes” can sometimes require thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars to restore. Digital pianos enlist very expensive proprietary electronic components that manufactures stop supporting eventually and even the very best of the best suffer under this fate. While high-end digital pianos truly rival acoustic pianos in sound and feel, the company’s commitment to support the technology inevitable determines the instruments longevity. This phenomena usually factors in after about a decade, but it’s a huge consideration if you’re considering purchasing used or the investment aspect. While acoustic pianos don’t have the same issues of supported tech they are not immune to servicing issues. In addition to biannual tuning most acoustics require extensive maintenance at least once each decade and expensive restoration work every fifteen to twenty-five years.

Tone and Feel:

Pianos are musical instruments first and foremost not simply utilitarian machines and while that may seem obvious it’s too often overlooked. The heart and soul of a piano is its voice and the physical connection of the pianist to the instrument. Just as our human voice is an expression of who we are, most experienced pianists feel the voice and feel of their instrument to be an extension of their musical soul. As a player gains experience this subtlety and connection takes hold but only if the instrument’s endowment permits. This is one reason it is prudent to invest in an instrument that is substantially more capable than the pianist. Musicians grow into their instruments, we need to be able to push beyond our previous attempts to create art on a higher level.

Aesthetics and Tradition

While for many aesthetics and tradition take a backseat, both undeniably play an important role in the equation. Creating art in a way that connects us to previous generations and developing a craft with roots that go back half a millennium preserves a tie to our past and a bridge to the future. In a world where electronics makes everything “better” and easier, there is something deeply satisfying and profound and organic about the acoustic piano. That being said, digital pianos have achieved amazing benchmarks and I feel that in some situations their advantages significantly outweigh the strengths of the acoustic piano.

Connectivity and Versatility:

Digital pianos can be astoundingly refined surpassing average acoustic pianos and coming close to matching some of the great instruments -and they do it somewhat economically, consistently, and with less hassle, maintenance and real estate. They also usually allow effortless top-notch recording, home entertainment playback of recordings and integrated pedagogical tools as well. There’s no denying today’s tech is formidable and can make life easier, digital pianos are no exception.

TALK TO A PIANO TEACHER

So there you have it! Lots to think about and perhaps a little soul searching but hopefully some direction of where to start and what questions to ask. Most importantly, talk to knowledgeable people who can help you narrow down the choices! Call or write to us anytime (we are objective because we don’t sell any products) or talk to a piano teacher you know. In any case we love to help get people pointed in the right direction and look forward to talking with you.

A famous quote as appropriate today as it was 2500 years ago

We’ve always loved this quote and hope it motivates and inspires you today. We are so thankful to have music! Thought to have been written almost 2500 years ago by Plato or another Greek philosopher, scholars have apparently had some disagreement and difficulty definitely sourcing the exact work from which it comes. Nonetheless, it is a nugget of ancient wisdom as appropriate today as it was then. Facing the realities of the world in which we live today, we often find ourselves consumed by all that is broken and in need of repair in our society and even perhaps in our own personal lives. In recent weeks, I have needed respite from the news feed so abundant and readily accessible, turning to music allows me to recenter and focus on “…all that is good and just and beautiful.” We effect change in the world around us with our thoughts and our actions but for me and so many others, music helps us keep our way. It really does give “…life to everything.”

The musical journeys of our adult students - Part IV

CHLOE’S MUSICAL JOURNEY

This is the fourth in a series of blogs centered around our adult students who offered to share their perspective and their musical journeys. We asked questions to initiate a conversation and our adults gave us heartfelt and soul warming responses that will inspire you as they inspired us!

Here are some of the questions we asked…

How long have you been playing? What are some of your favorite songs, works and artists? Any other musical studies? Did you like playing music as a kid, did you take lessons, did that change in adulthood? Was it hard to start with lessons as an adult, -obstacles, challenges? What motivated you and is it what you expected? What keeps you going? What's your favorite thing to play? What would you tell someone who wants to play and take lessons but has hesitations? Any other thoughts?

I have been playing cello for a little over three years. Almost a year with Joshua at Music By Tritone. I “instrument hopped” as a kid; I started with violin, then moved on to piano, cello, and finally guitar. I loved playing music as a kid and I took lessons for each instrument I played. 

It was definitely hard starting as an adult. The first 2 years of playing I wasn’t trained properly, so switching to being taught by Joshua I had major anxiety in doing so. I think for the first few months I was shaking at every single lesson. I expected a level of anxiety, being a perfectionist. Some lessons we simply worked through hesitations about playing. Also, as an adult we generally have less time to practice so I anticipated that being an obstacle. 

I think it is so important that, no matter what our age, we have some creative outlet no matter what that would be. I have always loved the cello and I felt at this point in my life it was something that I was really able to give dedication to despite a busy schedule. 

It is different in the aspect that I never thought I would get over my anxiety with playing in front of people. Joshua really encouraged me to participate in the adult ensemble, and while it was a challenge to go every week, I feel like in the end it really transformed my cello playing. It gave me a level of confidence to not only be able to play in front of people but to really be comfortable in my one-on-one lessons. 

Overcoming a challenge despite any fears that we have is so important. It gives us confidence when we accomplish something we never thought we would and in the mean-time, we create something beautiful with our instrument. 

I enjoy playing low register pieces the most and I can’t believe I am admitting this, since I was so against it at first, but I have come to greatly enjoy playing in an ensemble environment. Learning to play with others yields so many benefits and it is so enjoyable because the music really comes to life with so many instruments. 

In my personal opinion, as adults we have this overwhelming sense that we will be judged in some way or something to that effect. Through my lessons I have learned that being able to play the cello, doesn’t mean every note has to be perfect. No one expects our playing to be perfect and those around us are there to work with us not only musically but with facing the fears we may have. In the end the product will be rewarding. As adults it is also expected that we have less time. It is not expected that we will be able to play for 3 hours a day. Small increments throughout our week, even 10 minutes at a time, are really beneficial. 

The musical journeys of our adult students - Part III

JEFFREY’S MUSICAL JOURNEY

This is the third in a series of blogs centered around our adult students who offered to share details about their musical journeys. We asked questions to initiate a conversation and our adults gave us sincere and confidence-inspiring responses based on their experiences.

Here are some of the questions we asked…

How long have you been playing? What are some of your favorite songs, works and artists? Any other musical studies? Did you like playing music as a kid, did you take lessons, did that change in adulthood? Was it hard to start with lessons as an adult, -obstacles, challenges? What motivated you and is it what you expected? What keeps you going? What's your favorite thing to play? What would you tell someone who wants to play and take lessons but has hesitations? Any other thoughts?

When I first heard cello music, I remembered it and the sound resonates inside... so I guess I’ve played since my previous life. After years of procrastination, I decided to take up lessons with Joshua in 2019.

Favorite songs: any pieces with cello(s) including cello works by Elgar, Brahms, and Chopin and of course the Bach cello suites…

I love artists such as du Pré, Lloyd Webber, Yo-Yo Ma, Maisky, and the newer ones like Stjepan Hauser (2Cellos), Sol Gabetta, Sheku Kanneh-Mason...

Previous musical studies: Does listening count? I am always learning and trying new genres and have been playing piano on and off since childhood.

I had piano lessons (as a child) and did the grades so I took music theory too. 

Was it hard to start with lessons as an adult? -Not at all. We should be learning every day, shouldn't we? I see it as a problem-solving exercise. What is the task in question, what are our advantages/challenges, what resources do we have, and most importantly, when do we need this done by?

Obstacles: If you mean things that prevented me from learning/playing -Time. If I could choose, I'd play every day for an hour without distraction. We spend the same amount of time, eating/exercising/...fill in the blank, but if music is important to us, we need to do that. Another issue may be that your family may or may not be at the same level of interest as you are, so it becomes a competition at that point and you will need to manage to balance. My family has been very supportive, so I don't feel so much that I'm doing this on my own.

I did not expect anything (beginning cello). I brought all of myself and have benefited a great deal from the lessons and meeting others. 

Unexpected challenges: Aside from the big elephant in the room (covid-19)… I learnt music mostly in England where musical terms are slightly different. So I had to unlearn some words. Otherwise, it's all part and partial of learning something new!  

Knowing/hearing that I'm making progress, being able to discover and play the music that I love, AND meeting like-minded people keeps me going.

I have always played solo, and mostly classical, plus I am a die-hard Chopin devotee, on the piano -when it came to playing with others in the ensemble, it has been a lot fun. Playing pop on the piano solo was something I avoided but when we played a Beatles number in the ensemble last Christmas in our local mini-concert, it was a lot of fun and great experience! Many cellists have recorded tango music, so I'm dying to learn to play some. There are so many different methods of articulation on the cello, so it's very exciting and eye opening to me. Things are not so black and white anymore!

Thoughts for someone thinking of starting: Why not? What are you waiting for? If the passion is there, it will NOT take a long time. Who's the judge for talents, seriously?! 

The musical journeys of our adult students - Part II

Mandy’S MUSICAL JOURNEY

This is the second in a series of blogs centered around our adult students who offered to share insights about their musical journeys. We asked questions to initiate a conversation and our adults gave us beautiful, honest words and wisdom.

Here are some of the questions we asked…

How long have you been playing? What are some of your favorite songs, works and artists? Any other musical studies? Did you like playing music as a kid, did you take lessons, did that change in adulthood? Was it hard to start with lessons as an adult, -obstacles, challenges? What motivated you and is it what you expected? What keeps you going? What's your favorite thing to play? What would you tell someone who wants to play and take lessons but has hesitations? Any other thoughts?

This August 2020 will mark my second year of playing the cello and I have many favorite songs that I've played over the past two years. My favorite to date is Eleanor Rigby -mainly because my father and I share a special bond over Beatles songs. It was memorable, fun and felt very nostalgic. My part was not advanced, but the song would not have been the same without it. My part represented the passage of time, the hands of time always moving on. 

I played violin in the 6th grade, and piano off and on from elementary school through high school. When I started cello lessons with Zac, it had been at least 25 years since I last played an instrument.  

Playing violin was very frustrating for me in the 6th grade. I really wanted to play cello, but for various reasons, I was guided to play the violin. I don't think I ever recovered from that disappointment. I knew then, I wanted to play the cello. So, I only lasted 9 months of the school year playing the violin, and then wanted nothing to do with it after that point. I did continue playing the piano, but I wasn't very committed to practicing every day. However, I'm still so thankful I had music in my life. I never wanted to play professionally, just for the pure enjoyment of making music. I'm so thankful that music is back in my life. Now that I'm a grown adult, I can choose my instrument, and of course, I chose the cello. The sound resonates with my soul. 

It's funny that sometimes life lessons come back to "haunt" you as a parent. About three years ago, my son wanted to learn to play the baritone horn, but when I saw the rental price, I told him "No, you have to play the trumpet because that has a cheaper rental price." I saw his interest dwindle and fade because he couldn't play the instrument he truly wanted, and suddenly, I was reminded of my 6th grade violin experience. So, we made a few adjustments and changed him over to baritone horn lessons. The more I thought of this experience, I wondered to myself, "Well, why don't you go take cello lessons if that's what you truly want." So, here I am, two years into learning the cello.

Sometimes it is frustrating playing as a beginner adult. You do expect to sound better, but you have to come to a radical acceptance that you are a beginner and that is okay. Comparisons to other players aren't necessary. That's the beauty of adult wisdom! While I'm still a beginner, I'm definitely better than on day one! Also, I found playing with the adult ensemble group to be extremely motivating. I love playing with the group, even if I struggle sometimes. It encourages me to learn faster and try new things that I probably would be more hesitant to do on my own.

As an adult, sometimes I find it difficult to have my brain and motor skills coordinate with one another. It's sometimes challenging to count the rhythm, read music, make adjustments on the fly. It's definitely multi-tasking, but it so good for the aging brain. It keeps those brain cells healthy and active!

I love the sound of the cello and wanted to pursue this lifelong dream. So, I just did it! -Jumped in and started figuring it out with Zac's instruction.

I forgot how challenging it would be to practice after a long work day. My commute is about an hour each way, and then there is life, family, etc. There are some days I'm just tired, and tell Zac, "I'm pooped. I didn't practice this week because work was a bear but here I am! What can we accomplish today?" I'm not looking to be a professional, just to bring the joy of music into my life. So, if there are some weeks where I didn't practice as much as I liked, I just keep going and treat the next weeks as a new opportunity. 

Playing in the adult ensemble, I had a challenge with picking out my part in the score. My brain kept losing its place, and I couldn't follow… getting lost every third line sometimes. Zac to the rescue. He printed out just my part by itself so I could focus on my music part visually. Adapt and overcome!  

I love that Zac and Joshua are honest with us at adult ensemble. They don't expect perfection, just progress. They know we are at different levels, and they encourage us with positive support and funny anecdotes to make ourselves not take it all too seriously.

I love playing with the adult ensemble. It's fun and encouraging. I've definitely stepped out of my comfort zone in the group, but it's so supportive, that it doesn't feel intimidating.

 Music by Tritone is by far the most supportive music place around. It's a safe space to learn. My recommendation would be to bring music into your life and not look back. Keep all of Joshua's advice in the back of your mind! He gives some good life lessons along with musical lessons! Perfection is the enemy of good!

The musical journeys of our adult students - Part I

Abbie’s Musical Journey

This is the first in a series of blogs centered around our adult students who offered to share insights about their musical journeys. We posed a handful of questions to get the conversation started and what we got back was a truly humbling outpouring of truth, love and wisdom.

Here are some of the questions we asked…

How long have you been playing? What are some of your favorite songs, works and artists? Any other musical studies? Did you like playing music as a kid, did you take lessons, did that change in adulthood? Was it hard to start with lessons as an adult, -obstacles, challenges? What motivated you and is it what you expected? What keeps you going? What's your favorite thing to play? What would you tell someone who wants to play and take lessons but has hesitations? Any other thoughts?

Abbie Hattauer,
classical guitar

• I moved to Atlanta, Georgia in 2010 from Long Island, New York and began studying classical guitar with a private teacher here in 2011 (when I was 61 years old!). In August 2019 I began studying with Joshua at Music By Tritone.

• One of my favorite composers to play is Fernando Carulli because I found his solo and guitar duet music accessible and enjoyable to play.

• I began studying piano when I was 25 years old and I continued lessons for 15 years. I still love to play the piano every day.

• I wanted to learn to play the piano when I was ten years old but the first (and only) teacher my parents sought said that I should begin by first learning to play the accordion. When I couldn't figure out the coordination during that first "trial" lesson, the "teacher" told my parents I had no musical aptitude and they never pursued any other options. I loved singing from my first chorus class in 4th grade and I studied voice with a private New York City teacher in my early 30s. I eventually performed more than a dozen major mezzo soprano opera and operetta roles for twenty years. Before COVID-19, I was studying the ukulele with a private teacher. I hope to return to those lessons in the (near?) future.   

• I always enjoy taking lessons but it amazes me how long it takes to learn to play any instrument and how much concentration and effort is required. My love of music is a great solace to me (especially now) and I am so grateful to have it in my life. 

• My favorite thing about playing classical guitar is having the opportunity to play with the Music by Tritone Adult Ensemble since October 2019. It has been an amazing and wonderful journey that has enriched my life in so many ways — through the other musicians I have met, the music we have learned together and the skills we have all gained along the way.  

• To anyone considering starting this musical journey I would say, "Just do it!"  It will take diligence and determination but the rewards can be life changing! 

Thanks to Abbie and all of our adult students (individuals and group ensembles). You are, without doubt, our inspiration — and you teach us about music and life every time we all meet. We are humbled and grateful!

The best age to begin music lessons.

What’s the best age to start learning a musical instrument? Am I too old to start? Is my child too young for lessons? Should my child have started younger? We find ourselves answering these questions very frequently and for good reason. The answers are not always intuitive.

We’ve all heard that children acquire language and aural skills more quickly than adults. Indeed, young children, as their neurology and physiology rapidly develop, seem particularly suited to learn the sequential memorization and fine motor skills required to play an instrument. So, is younger categorically better? The answer is a definite NO. As a private instrumental teacher one of the things I love about my job and marvel at daily is that no two people learn exactly the same way — and that goes for children and adults of all ages! In fact, the field of neuroscience continually uncovers more details of how our brain’s chemistry determines so much of how we learn and what we remember.

And here’s the cool part, our psychology and state of mind impact this chemistry profoundly which highlights the variable educators should reflect on daily: Are each of my students ready and eager to learn what I’m preparing to teach? In this context, I’ve often found middle school and high school beginners making such rapid progress that they entirely close the gap with their peers who started half a decade earlier because the older child wanted it — and wanted it intensely. For another example, most adult lessons cover a depth of material that most children just don’t care to understand …and with this knowledge the adults can potentially pursue it at a much higher level in less time. In truth, we find a trade-off can occur. Youth’s advantages of sequential memorization and deferred imitation trade out for a mature student’s superior mental imaging, conceptual understanding and conscious proprioception.

So, what is the best age to start an instrument? Here’s the answer I’ve witnessed time and time again: The “best age” is the age when, after exposure and introduction, an individual likes the idea of playing. If a toddler really loves the idea, go for it! Many of these young students have gone on to greatness. But in any case, you’ll want the sense that the student desires to play music for herself/himself. This is the single most important factor! I encourage individuals and families to talk to a private music teacher and perhaps give lessons a try for a few lessons at any age, from 4 to 84. A good teacher will adapt her/his teaching style to build on each individual’s strengths and let the families know if she/he feels it’s best to wait a few more months or a year. A good teacher can also recommend listening resources and fun at-home activities to build confidence and increase exposure for students of any age. Even though challenges will inevitably pop up, the momentum of musical education should be inspiring and validating — a chance for each student to discover the beauty of making music with creativity and imagination!

Virtual Private Music Lessons (We offer in-person and virtual) - FAQs

What is a virtual private lesson?
A virtual private lesson is a one-on-one learning experience during which a teacher helps you begin or progress with your instrument. It is FUN, ENRICHING, and STEP-BY-STEP. Whereas traditionally private lessons are taught in person, virtual lessons are taught using your phone or computer to video conference with your teacher. Click here to meet our highly qualified, personable teachers.

Who can take lessons?
The short answer is almost anyone! We teach students of all ages and levels, Children and adults, people with disabilities, serious/competitive musicians, recreational players… We really strive to bring music to anyone who wants to experience it and WE LOVE SHARING MUSIC!

What’s the best time to start?
There’s no better time than now! Music lessons are the antidote for boredom, they expand our mind, develop motor skills and open the door to creative exploration! Learning to create music is deeply satisfying, allowing us to experience beauty and connect with those around us. It is perhaps the single best cure for feelings of isolation!

What equipment do I need?
If you’re a singer, you just need a smartphone, tablet or computer with video! For all others, you’ll need a smartphone, tablet or computer with video and your instrument. That’s it!! Some student’s like to use earbuds or headphones but that’s optional and your teacher will help you with getting setup. IT’S REALLY THAT SIMPLE!

How do I setup for a lesson?
You guessed right, it’s super simple and your teacher will tell you everything you need to know! He/she will want you to be able to see him/her comfortably and will want to be able to see your posture and hand positions. Your teacher will help you use simple household items like rubber bands and a book on a chair or table to get the perfect camera angle.

How will my teacher be able to help me if she/he is not in the same room as me?
Your virtual teacher has many hours of experience working with students over video platforms. She/he will demonstrate so you can watch and listen and describe so you can understand. She/he will also be watching and listening to you attentively and helping you take notes so you know exactly what to work on. During lessons you have your teacher’s undivided attention and that includes a commitment to make it FUN and STEP-BY STEP.

How often and for how long should we meet?
Once a week private lessons are traditional and for beginners, 30 minute lessons are a good start but there are lots of options based on your situation. Many of our students do two 30 minutes weekly which is ideal for students of all ages because you get input every few days avoiding frustration, bad habits or boredom. 45 minute lessons and 60 minute lessons are also popular options especially for more advanced students but talk to your teacher to determine what’s best for you right now.

How much do virtual private lessons cost?
Lesson rates start at $30 for 30 minutes and $120 monthly.

What’s my commitment? (What if it’s not a good fit or I want to stop?)
There is NO initial commitment and we encourage all students to just start with one or two individual lessons… NO OBLIGATION! After you’ve determined it’s something you want to continue with, we proceed month to month, requesting one month’s notice if you want to stop so there is no long-term commitment on your part. Our number one objective is to tailor the experience to your needs and desires, and that includes synchronizing perfect teacher-student chemistry!

How can I get other questions answered, find out more or book my trial lesson?
We’d love to talk about lessons or anything else musical anytime! We don’t even stick to standard business hours so give us a call 8:00AM-10:00PM EST seven days a week. Our number is 678-795-0602 and if we can’t pick up, leave us a voicemail so we can get back to you ASAP. You can also reach us by clicking here and filling out the form. We’ll get back to you right away!

Have you ever thought about sharing a "musical performance selfie"?

You are special, you are loved and you are not alone! There has never been a more appropriate time to say this or to share with others that which makes us unique. This is what it is to be human! And music is just an extension of our beautiful humanity. So, let's start with a little background…

Our community in North Fulton Georgia and online has made Music By Tritone who we are for 18 years!  Now with ONLINE LESSONS for our students — and the new norm instead of the occasional — we have been truly INSPIRED by how well students of ALL AGES are thriving with virtual lessons. They are also excited by the student video recording projects — solos, bands and ensembles — all online!  

It's these projects that I'd love to talk about here. In the information age where we have access to the most extraordinary glimpses of man and nature. It has been all too easy to refrain from contributing anything less than sensational. As amateur artists and students, the question many wonder is WHY? Why should I share something that doesn't achieve critical acclaim or push the limits of human achievement? 

To understand this, I enjoy reflecting on a time when recording did not exist. Prior to 1878, there was no way to capture music — and even many decades later —  live performance was the only way for most to appreciate music. Musicians provided this enjoyment physically and in-person in every town and city. Most experts agree though that modern musical performers achieve consistently higher levels of technical perfection due to advancements in pedagogy, more widely accessible training resources and constant self-analysis. 

So why then, paralleling this advancement has there been a decline in the enjoyment of musical performance by amateur musicians? One explanation: It seems there's always someone who can do it better... and that "better" performance is right there at our fingertips. But what really is better? I spend a lot of time fixing posture and helping with tone and rhythm but is that actually what makes music "music"? Performance, in fact, is expression simple and pure. Better technique may help us better convey our intent but any time we play something or sing and try to convey genuine human emotion, every time we tell a musical story, we have created original art! That uniqueness makes it special, it makes it ours and THAT IS BETTER!

Music, especially during this time of necessary separation, gives us an outlet for expression, satisfaction of accomplishment and the possibility of something beautiful to share with our family and friends. On Facebook we'll be posting lots of student videos (solos and virtual ensembles) in the coming days but in the meantime, please share our page with your family and friends so they can ”like” and follow! 

If you haven't already, please consider joining us if you or anyone in your family would like to begin or improve on an instrument or voice. We teach Piano, Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Guitar, Ukulele, Drums, Voice and Songwriting: Beginner to Advanced, Children and Adults. We also organize virtual bands and ensembles as well. In any case though, think about sharing a "musical performance selfie" by posting on social media or simply sharing with a few friends and family!

You can find out more about virtual lessons by CLICKING HERE.