Twiddling Tuesday by Tommia Wright

All right, so in continue this month’s bit of bold madness, repeating Yoda’s wise words of ‘Do’ vs. ‘Try’ I decided it was time to take out the instruments from the corner of the loft.

Yes, I’ve mentioned that there’s a table there for crafting (among other things that have surprisingly not toppled over courtesy of the cat). There is a small collection of instruments that have been dusted off, tucked away, dismissed given the dismal playing of this ‘all thumbs’ musician.

However, ignoring the fear and reminding myself that a Kalimba is meant for thumbs, I decided to play! So, began a little tune (originally composed on a keyboard I should probably sell, but then again won’t) that I tried on the kalimba and the recorder (a great gift from a relative who was overseas at the time).

It was interesting to hear the different nuances between the three. Given frequent slips on the kalimba (I mentioned I was all thumbs, yes?), I discovered that the ‘accidental’ notes added something  I wouldn’t have discovered on the keyboard. With the recorder, some notes held longer than planned added a different echo of their own.

It may help to finish the melody first, composing on keyboard where I can see and hear what is and isn’t working. Then maybe seeking out more musically inclined and talented friends to assist in the full assemble…

On that note, did you ever play in a band or sing in a choir? What kept you away? What made it fun? Do you still play?