Susan,
I was a violinist from age 3 to age 16. (I actually still consider myself a
violinist, although not professionally) My parents as well as their parents
(and theirs, etc) are symphony musicians, and it was expected of me to do the
same. Although I didn't always like it, I would NEVER give up that
experience for the world. The most important thing is find a group that your
son can play in. This way along with the practicing comes social activities
like bowling, picnics, movie nights, etc. I was a bit..uh, eccentric when I
was a kid, but my orchestra friends were always there for me. It's a
wonderful group with which to be associated. Before I was old enough to play
in an orchestra I played in a violin group... we would play together on
risers and occasionally do duets and solos.. but we were always working
towards something...along with our friends. it wasn't just like I was
performing for my parents' friends. I actually refused to do this, because I
felt it demeaning and just plain embarassing.
SO, the thing that kept me going so long was the social aspect, and then it
was the recognition and awards, and finally, it was the music.
Lauren
|
|  |
