Why Violin?

2001-08-18

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Violin is my third musical instrument. My first has been the keyboard. I do quite well at it, but it has never been really enjoyable. My second has been the guitar. I really like the acoustic sound. Although my playing isn't bad, I find it difficult to play songs if I don't practice every day, and I don't practice every day. With violin, I find I can just pick it up and enjoy some music almost instantly. It's very natural for me.

Of course, everybody says that violin is the most difficult instrument to use. Not to me. At least I can make some sound out of it. I have yet to make some sound out of a trumpet. Also, I can play all kinds of songs with violin effortlessly, whereas I can't do that with a guitar. And it is more compact and portable than a keyboard.

I suspect the real reason is more personal. Playing a violin gives me joy. If I had a particularly bad day, then I will play simple songs, and enjoy those. If I had a particularly good day, then I will play more advanced songs and try to perfect it. I only need to pick up a violin once before I decided it's for me. There may be some debate about violin, viola, and cello, but violin is the one I have, and the one most easily supportable in the area where I live.

Just because violin is for me, doesn't mean that other musical instrument is inferior. I enjoy all kinds of musical instruments, too. If you want to pick up Gamelan, then go ahead. I can't think of a reason why someone wants to do that, though. Gamelan is not exactly a personal music instrument.

Maybe there is a better instrument for me. I don't know. I tried harmonica, drums, and flute. Nothing gives me more joy than playing a violin, although it can be argued that I play better music on those intruments other than violin. Still, personal reason is why I choose violin.