Karmic Chickens are Roosting

Some of the Irish gang

For a large chunk of my journey on the planet, I have pushed people, singers mostly, to do things far outside their comfort zones.  I wanted them to demand the very best of themselves, because I honestly believe the greatest reward comes from the greatest effort.  In particular, I think of ORCA and some of the magnificent moments we shared when we'd mastered a particularly difficult piece (remember la ma ragashu?) Getting there was a sometimes painful process as people, including me, were stretched.  I hope it wasn't too much like being on the rack of the Inquisiton.

Joined by an accordion player

Now I am operating far, far outside my own comfort zone, culturally, linguistically and especially musically.  I am not used to being the "slowest" student in the class, but that is precisely where I find myself every Wednesday night at the Irish music workshop. Frankly, I don't like it much, but it is what it is. 

Guy's protege--she's been very supportive

What a learning experience! Now I am the one being pushed, urged, scolded.  To be fair to myself, I am really just learning the dulcimer.  I did buy it a couple of years ago, but it languished in the closet while I tended to the business of life and I directed my learning energies to the piano(That process is still ongoing, as well)  For all intents and purposes, I am at the beginning of the beginner level.  

When he's playing, Guy looks like a softie!

Having said that, I go every Wednesday evening for my weekly dose of humiliation to play with these people who've not only mastered their instruments, (fiddle, flute, penny whistle, guitar, bagpipes, bodhran) but are also well on their way to mastering an entire repertoire of Irish jigs, reels, hornpipes and the occasional waltz.  (Guy, the leader, is not a fan of ballads or anything with words, much to my disadvantage)  The net result is that I am at a significant deficit when it comes to making music and I am NOT accustomed to this position.

Last night was marginally better.  I have been practicing fiendishly, and I was actually able to play two of the four pieces I know without errors, with the group.  That is a major breakthrough for me.

Which flute to play?  He also has bagpipes

Not only have I learned more about the dulcimer and Irish music, I have learned some things about myself.  Now that I am the one being pushed, it's been interesting to see my response.  I haven't given up; if anything I am more determined than ever.  I have learned that while I may never have Guy's facility and mastery (after all, he's been playing for 50 years and I don't have that long left to live!!), I can still participate on a level that will be rewarding to me and not painful for the others. It's okay that I won't be the "leader" here.  

Beer, wine, tea and music!

Last night I was thinking that it's a shame that these Irish musicians don't have a place to play for dancing.  I started thinking of possible places to have a dance, a ceilidh, if you will.  (Although that's Scottish and Guy only plays Irish music.)  Maybe I could organize it?  At that point I stopped short, realizing that part of the reason I love it here is that I DON'T have to be the one to organize things.  

Old habits die hard, I guess.

Hands making music