‘Let’s start from the very beginning’

I had privilege of introducing my three daughters to music from a very young age. They could not read and were so young that trying to explain simple concepts like a ‘High note’ or then note C, D, E, became very complex tasks for me. I was learning to play the Celtic harp at the same time, the hand positioning on this instrument is very different to playing the piano, and I felt like a baby again. This gave me some compassion for my children, and I learnt from my children that they learned quicker when an element of play was introduced. My children learnt faster when rigid rules were removed and they were allowed to explore and play as they learnt in their own individual way.

Our first Harmonious Devon Devon even at Joiners Arm on the 16th January was to me a great success. We only had a few people turn up, so it was intimate. We as adults bring so much baggage to these types of sessions. Thoughts go through our minds like, ‘I learnt the piano when I was young, but I’ve forgotten it all.’ Or, ‘I’ve always thought I could play a bit of percussion but I just didn’t want to make a fool of myself trying.’

It was refreshing to be in a atmosphere of non-judgement and of playful experimentation, and I felt that many of us broke through barriers and gained experience and confidence trying new things.

I was able to run a well being session and the feedback I got was that everyone was challenged and enjoyed themselves. I appreciate all the support I have received from the Community and I look forward to our next event on the 23 January at the Joiners Inn.