Learning The Keys Like My ABC’s

As small children, the asked us. “What do you want to do when you grow up?” We giggled and covered our faces with excitement - blush made our faces orchid pink. We said things; such as, “veterinarian,” ”firefighter,” “doctor,” “teacher.” The first time, at age five and a half, I said veterinarian. At age six I said an artist like my mother, and later, at age twelve, a musician like my father. A lot of time has passed since then, but I still long to be a musician and hope to learn and grow throughout my topic and after.

I entered this ELI with little knowledge of piano. I live with my grandparents, one of whom is a talented musician. She would have taught me piano, if only I had the confidence. Since I had never had the chance to truly learn to play an instrument, I was unsure  if I would be able to play well. I did not want to begin something I thought I might fail at.  Now, of course, I am older and possibly wiser in retrospect. I know now that as humans we fail, but we can always get back up and learn how to be better. I wanted to live this idea by getting over my past fears and learn to play the piano. I am working with my grandmother, Susan Mahoney as my mentor for this ELI, to gain confidence to play what I want to play - whenever.

This ELI began with a few ideas of the work  in store but, at the same time, I knew it would be worth the hard work. Knowing I will eventually be able to express myself in a way I so longed to do is what I see as the outcome of this learning process. By the close of this project and my high school career, I plan to be able to read music, perform music that I enjoy, and have knowledge of different methods throughout piano history.

If you love music, or have ever wondered what learning an instrument would be like, I invite you to ask questions about my ELI experience and my progress as I continue.

~Hannah