When was the last time you did something for the first time?

There is something so exciting about learning something new for the first time. Whether its the first time you explore a new city, experience a first kiss, or try a new recipe. Over the last few months I’ve found myself needing a mentally stimulating hobby that could help me refocus after a long day. I wanted to challenge myself to learn something totally new and out of my comfort zone — stretching my mind in a new way.

Learning the violin

As mentioned in the Netflix’s ‘100’ Humans’, studies show learning to play music boosts portions of the brain responsible for decision making, focusing attention and reigning in impulses. Playing music can also improve memory, relieve depression, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function.

Learning to play the violin has been on my mind for years, but I never thought of myself as “musical”. I was raised with an appreciation for music but never really tried to learn myself (not counting the elementary school band years). The inspiration to learn the violin came from two of my favorite musicians; my dad and Boyd Tinsley.

Music appreciation

I come from a family with several talented musicians, including an extremely talented father who can sing and play guitar like a rock star. My dad was part of a band pretty much my whole life until around high school age. His band would practice in the bonus room every Sunday afternoon and I LOVED how the sound would fill the house. I’ve always been so proud of my dad’s talent. College years he would learn my favorite songs (usually Dave Matthews Band) and play them for me and my friends. It always amazed me how he could pick up the guitar and transform the room. For years, when people would ask me if I play any musical instruments I would say “No, I didn’t get that talent from my dad, but I do know what good music sounds like”

For the last 20+ years, I have been a devoted Dave Matthews Band fan. I went to my first show when I was 15 years old, and have been every year since. There is nothing like seeing Dave Matthews Band play LIVE. They are by far the best concert I’ve ever been to. Boyd Tinsley puts on a great performance, and his solos are always my favorite part of the show. I love his HUGE smile and the excitement and fun he brings to the stage. It is infectious and impossible not to get on your feet and DANCE!

Meeting Boyd Tinsley

I was lucky enough to see him in concert in 2016 at a small local venue in downtown Raleigh, NC. He was traveling with a start up band named Crystal Garden and I was able to see him from the first row! Over the years I’ve seen him play 20+ times, but always among 20,000 other fans. After the show I was able to meet him and checked off a huge Bucket List item!

Stay tuned

As part of this blog, I will bring you on my journey to learn the violin! Learning something new for the first time is exciting and right now, my ambition outpaces my talent. I will warn you, I am starting from complete scratch. I don’t even know how to read music! LOL We’ll see how this goes 🙂 Next step, buying a new violin. Stay tuned!