I always feel like trying something new after the holidays. There’s something about having made it through another year and the days slowly starting to stretch back out. It’s also about the calendar pages flipping faster and faster. If there’s something I’ve been wanting to do, I’d better get to it. Yet I notice I’m often reluctant put myself in that state of “beginner mind.” After all, there are plenty of things I already know how to do; why should I spend effort on something I don’t??
Of course we all know the answer to that. We’ve read the research. Challenging ourselves with new activities sharpens our minds, creates new brain synapses, builds dexterity. On a deeper level it feeds our soul. On a social level it strengthens peer networks. And for me there are two additional reasons: 1) I’m always glad once I’ve done it, and 2) I like to occasionally do things that surprise my grown children. I like to remind both them and myself that I’m more than just a mom (and now a grandma!). That I’ve still got some game.
In that spirit I’ve put together a program of 6-week intro classes for adults. I thought my fellow grownups might like a low-commitment way to get the feel for music study. Some who take a class might be satisfied by simply having given it a try. Others may want to go on to another level. Either way it could be a great way to start the new year.
Have a wonderful holiday! —Linda