My Quest for Mastery in the World of Musical Instruments
Throughout my life, I have been drawn to various musical instruments, each offering a unique challenge and rewarding experience. Over the past 70 years, I have dedicated myself to perfecting these instruments, from the violin to the guitar, hoping to play them better than anyone else in the world.
The Age-Old Question: Which Instrument Would I Choose?
The question of which instrument I would choose to be the best at is a constant one. Over a decade ago, If you could choose to play one musical instrument better than anybody in the world, which would it be? various answers and debates emerged, with some advocating for the violin, piano, or other instruments. Here’s my journey and thoughts on the matter.
The Violin: A Lifelong Love
The violin, also called the fiddle, has been a constant companion for me for over 70 years. It has been a source of joy and pride, with hundreds of public performances under my belt. While I enjoy playing other instruments such as the guitar, mandolin, banjo, Appalachian dulcimer, and sitar, none of these instruments can match the impact and depth of my relationship with the violin.
The Piano: The Versatile King
Many people argue that the piano is the ultimate instrument, as it can play any song, even complex pieces like those by Mozart. I appreciate the piano’s versatility and the multitude of notes it can produce. However, it’s not my top choice for mastering an instrument in the world. My heart remains with the violin.
Cello: A Symphony of Grace
The cello, known for its beauty and elegant sounds, is a natural choice for many musicians. Its deep, resonant tones can be mesmerizing. Despite my admiration for the cello, I still feel a distinct connection to the violin. I often think, “How could I become the best cello soloist?” but ultimately, it’s about giving something unique to the world.
Electric Guitar: The King of Rock
The electric guitar, on the other hand, offers an exhilarating and powerful sound, especially in metal genres. Being the best guitarist in the world would be an incredible achievement, as it would require not only skill but also a distinct musical style and creativity. It’s a bold statement, almost like being a “metal god,” but the violin remains my preference.
Bass and Vocals: Supporting Acts
I’ve also played the bass and sang on stage, and while I enjoy these roles, they are secondary to my primary focus. If I were to start over, I would likely choose the piano. Knowing how to play the keys means I could learn almost any other instrument. The only exceptions would be stringed, woodwinds, brass, and percussion, but the piano offers a versatile foundation that could help me excel in any musical endeavor.
The Quest for Mastery
Overall, the violin remains my chosen instrument for mastery. It’s a constant pursuit that requires not just talent but patience, discipline, and a deep understanding of music. It’s an age-old pursuit, but one that I am deeply committed to. As the saying goes, 'You never master you just improve.' Each performance, each practice, each new piece of music is a step closer to achieving my dream of becoming the best violinist in the world.