Comfort Zone

For some, playing in a concert is a daunting idea. Maybe you are new to your instrument. Maybe you are unfamiliar with the music. Maybe you have never sat on a stage, with the audience looking at you.

I have experienced all of those issues. My first concert was at the NH Highland Games in 2017. I had been playing the accordion for less than 2 years. The music was new to me. I was just learning to recognize the difference between a jig and a reel. And I was very nervous. I managed to sit in the back and got through it. It actually was fun being there with the whole group and everyone was very encouraging.

Now, with each performance, I can comfortably play a few more tunes up to speed, and I do know the difference between a jig, a reel, and even a strathspey. I’m no longer sitting in the very back of the orchestra. Someday, I may even make it to the front row!!

Not in the back row.