Name: Layla

Grade: 8th

Level: Avant/Chamber

Instrument: Cello

 

How long have you been playing?

3-4 yrs

 

What sparked your interest in playing this instrument?

My brother plays the cello as well and was the one who sparked my interest.

 

What is your favorite musical piece that you've played?

Fugue in G Minor is definitely one of my favorites.

 

What type of music do you most like to play and why?

I most like to play classical because it’s beautiful, yet still has the complex rhythms that can come with even the most simple sounding piece.

 

What is giving/gave you the most trouble while learning, and what advice would you give to others having similar difficulties?

Definitely one of the most troubling parts of practicing is getting upset with myself as I try and figure out the piece we’re playing. You see all these other people at different levels than you, and you feel the need to keep up or cram all your work into one practice session. Of course, going too fast and trying to use techniques I wasn’t ready for wasn’t helpful for my practice; it wasn’t making me any better either. Going too fast led to frustration and giving up just because I wasn’t “as good as my section”. The advice I would give is to just relax. Sure, you can take practicing your instrument seriously, but still have fun while practicing. Now, when I feel myself getting frustrated with a rhythm I can’t figure out, I breathe and just go slower, rather than going way too fast and thinking about how well others are doing.

 

Any words of wisdom or encouragement for your peers?

Always believe in yourself and know you are doing the best you can - that’s enough. Though it may take time, if you’re passionate about and work hard for what you want, you will get there eventually.
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