by Linda Ratcliff
Hard work beats talent … when talent doesn’t work hard.
Natural Talent vs. Hard Work
- Lacks a sense of rhythm – plays on the wrong beats.
- Tone deaf – doesn’t notice when he/she strums or hammers the wrong notes or chords.
- Finds it difficult to keep in step with other players.
Talent may be overrated – especially if a person doesn’t put in sweat equity as well. I believe a person who doesn’t possess a natural instinct for music can still learn to play the dulcimer if he/she possess the following attributes:
Dedication: This person is willing to make a larger investment of time into their practice than the natural musician.
Determination: This person doesn’t let the skepticism of family members or friends stop him. He won’t let anything or anyone discourage him from learning to play the dulcimer.
Passion: This person loves music and has a great love for the sweet sound of the dulcimer.
Practice will not make you a natural musician, but it will definitely bridge the gap between the musician for whom playing comes easily and the one who has to work at it. With practice, a fumbling musician can become a skilled instrumentalist.
If you have any questions, always feel free to ask Steve or myself.
Happy dulcimering,
Linda
| Bridging the Gap Between What You Know … And Where You Want Your Music to Go |
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