Over the last two years, I’ve faced a lot of fears head on, stepped outside my comfort zone, and experienced the shrill joy that comes from doing what I once thought was impossible.
But there was one fear lurking in a dark closet that I hoped I would never have to face again. I had shut that closet and locked up tight almost 10 years ago with no intention of ever finding the key. As far as I was concerned, it was done. Over. Past.
What was that fear you ask? The fear of playing my violin in front of an audience.
For those of you who didn’t know, long before I was a blogger, I was a violinist. I took violin lessons for many years, spent countless hours practicing, played for many different occasions and events, and taught violin for a number of years.
As long as I was playing in a group, I loved it. But get me up on a stage playing a solo or duet and I was scared sick and a nervous wreck. I can’t tell you how many times I messed up in public due to nerves nor how many opportunities I said “no” to because I was so afraid of performing.
Zipping Up My Violin Case Once and For All
When I got married, I zipped up my violin case and put it at the top of closet. I was sad to say goodbye to what was once a big part of my life, but also thrilled and relieved that I didn’t have to live in fear of my next violin performance.
Years past, babies were born, jobs changed, and the violin moved with us and got stuck at the top of a closet with each move. I pulled it out on a few occasions, but mostly it just sat there.
I Don’t Know What Got Into Me, But I Said “Yes”
A few months ago, my sister was planning her senior recital and she said that she’d love more than anything if all of her sisters could play together as part of her recital. I hadn’t touched my violin in over three years, so I don’t know what got into me, but I told her I’d do it.
Life’s been full and I didn’t think too much about it until last week as I was practicing in earnest for the recital. All of a sudden, all of those fears from the past came on with a vengeance.
I remembered those recitals I’d bombed. Those quartets I’d squeaked through and played wrong notes in.
And I started having major panic. “Why had I signed up to do this? What on earth was I thinking?”
Every time I thought about walking up on that stage and attempting to play, I got sick to my stomach and felt my chest constrict.
I Knew In My Heart I Was Supposed to Do This
I started concocting a lot of reasons why I could and should back out. I even hoped that maybe I’d get really sick so I wouldn’t be able to do it.
But I knew in my heart that I was supposed to do this. I was suppose punch this lifelong fear of mine in the face (thanks, Jon Acuff!).
That didn’t make it any easier, though.
The day of the recital, I was a ball of nerves. I couldn’t think straight. And I had to keep stopping to pray, breathe, and remind myself that “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” {I even went and hid out in the bathroom twice before the recital to try and calm my nerves!}
Punching Fear in the Face
Before I knew it: the moment arrived. I went up on stage, trembling and fearful, but determined.
My hands were shaking. My heart was pounding. And I had no idea what kind of crazy squeaking might result from my violin because I was so nervous.
But, I made myself breathe, I said a quick prayer, and I told myself, “Go punch fear in the face.”
And I did it!
No, it wasn’t an award-winning performance, but it was the first time ever that I have made it through a performance where I was the sole violinist without making major mistakes or basically botching the piece.
It felt so, so good. And I am very happy I didn’t back out at the last minute. Because I would have missed the sheer exhilaration that comes from punching fear in the face.
P.S. I’m posting a video of the performance — not because I think my part was amazing (if you have a good ear, you’ll hear some slightly flat notes coming from my violin at times!) — but because I want to inspire you to face your own fears head on and punch ’em in the face. It feels really good. 🙂
Related: I loved this post by David Molnar on how he faced the one thing he feared most.
Domonick says
Thanks so much for sharing this story, this along with the moym course has really inspired me to live on purpose I am still working on “punching fear in the face” but I am not apposed to it as much as I was before.
Betsy @ A Mother's Road says
Wow – love this!! Thanks for sharing and being vulnerable. I also love how this was arranged – the melody flowing from one instrument to the other. Beautiful! My two sisters and I all played the piano growing up and it was so much fun to play together. After hearing this, though, I wish we had played a variety of instruments so we could play together more.
Karissa Sjaarda says
I am crying through your performance. I love that it’s not just a beautiful piece, but that you came together with your sisters. I did a 30-day challenge of learning to play the violin this past October (with a piano background) and it was amazing. I only performed for my husband and parents and never posted the video we made. Maybe I should do that.
I teach piano and I love what one poster said about her piano teacher–as soon as her teacher thought she was ready, she had her students start performing. I think it’s such an important skill to be able to speak/sing/play in front of a crowd. There are so many missed opportunities if fear stops you!
Thanks for posting this–and I’ll see if I can find the courage to post my violin piece after taking violin for 4 weeks. 🙂
Michelle Owings-Christian says
What a lovely piece. I have played flute for 52 years, and your sister is amazing. The fact that she wanted her sisters to join her says a great deal about the love you have for each other. You sounded fine to me! I am so glad you went out there and did your best. I am even more glad that you shared the process with us. A Native American Teacher once told me “Sit at the feet of your fear and learn it’s lessons.” So many lessons — whittling away at the fears little by little.
starla says
This post has hit a chord in many I see. ..joining with you to face fears. I love this post. I have been struggling with fear for a lifetime. To me it seem that my job is simply to overcome them. I told a group of friends yesterday that everything I do I have to walk through the door of fear. I am so proud of you for doing just that!! INSPIRING!!!
Beka says
That was beautiful to listen to, you should make it background music on your blog. =)
Angela says
This was really great! I am a former violin player, so I loved hearing this. There are many violinists in my family. My sister is a violin teacher, so she actually has my old violin now. I know I would play if only I had a violin!! Maybe someday 🙂 Thanks for sharing and way to go with facing your fear!
starla says
This post has hit a chord in many I see. Would you consider turning your photo of PUNCH FEAR IN THE FACE into a button that others can display on there blogs ..joining with you to face fears. I love this post. I have been struggling with fear for a lifetime. To me it seem that my job is simply to overcome them. I told a group of friends yesterday that everything I do I have to walk through the door of fear. I am so proud of you for doing just that!! INSPIRING!!!
Kim says
Way to go, Chrystal!! It turned out beautifully…you should be so proud of your self for doing this. I wish we could of seen, your lovely face, but other than that it sounded flawless to me. I don’t play a musical instrument but have always wanted to play the piano. I started taking lessons, but became very ill shortly after that. I have been fighting for my life for 7 years now. But one day, I would love to start taking those lessons again.
Erin says
Good job! I’m another one whose violin got shelved… not really out of fear (although solos do frighten me) but when I went to college, I no longer had an orchestra to play in, a teacher to guide me, or a convenient place to practice. Without a reason to practice, I got busy with other things. Now its been 10 years and a couple kids later and its still hard to get out my violin and play. Maybe I need a performance to motivate me to practice 🙂 But there is NO WAY I could pull together a performance like that! After 10 years of minimal playing, I am beyond rusty! I sound scratchy and out of tune and forgot how to count. I usually get frustrated with how bad I’ve gotten and put it back away 🙂 But my grandfather has always requested I play at his funeral and he is now 96 and so this is a good reminder to re-teach myself to play.
Carol@simple_catholic says
You are such an inspiration, Crystal! The performance was beautiful.
Grace S. says
That was beautiful! How nice to hear all you girls play together. (Did you hide behind the music stand on purpose. 🙂 ) I hope this post inspires my daughter who has a talent for the piano but is terrified to play for people. Thanks for sharing!
Karen says
Beautiful post Crystal! I have to punch fear every time I sit at the church piano….and I play every week and have for years! I still get uber-nervous. But, I know it’s a blessing to my church family and they appreciate even my stumbling fingers. God bless you!
danielle says
that was very beautiful! 🙂 You are all so talented! How wonderful 🙂
Patti King says
Loved the video! That is such a beautiful song. Thanks for sharing it.
Barbara says
That was lovely. Good for you.
Cindy Brown says
You & your sisters did a beautiful piece. I know you are proud of yourself for doing it. Great job for overcoming your fear!
One of my fears is of heights. I wouldn’t go to the edge of something even if there was a railing around it for fear that I would slip and go tumbling down. Last week we were on spring break with our kids in Gatlinburg, TN. The kids had gotten 3 free tickets to go zip-lining. Boy were they so excited!!! When we get to the place we are told that since the kids are under 16 an adult would have to zip with them. Well that left me to do it because my husband couldn’t do it. I was a nervous wreck before I finally agreed to do it because I didn’t want to disappoint my kids. I am proud to say that I zip-lined with my kids that day and it was an experience I will never forget. Have I gotten over my fear of heights- no not really but I think I have made a step forward. So I guess you could say that I just slapped my fear instead of punching it in the face! LOL
Summer says
Well don’t play the violin or any instrument…. but have this awful fear of driving and its gotten worse since my brother was killed by a drunk driver..being a mom of 4 makes this fear cause extra stress on my hubby…he tries to be encouraging about it but doesn’t really understand…here’s to punching fear in the face…praying I can do this
RachaelP says
Well done! Thanks for posting the video. It brought me back to my college days when I played the harp with different groups. I so miss playing the harp regularly. Life changes and it’s not a priority like it used to be and that’s one of my biggest regrets. Does one of your sisters play the harp?
Anyway, thanks for sharing, it was a very relaxing 2 minutes that made me smile.
Maggie Zam says
Awesome! Congrats 😀
Donna says
WOW!
You really should punch fear in the face more often 😉
You did great!
(I’m learning guitar- my kids are teaching me 😉
Alright- I’m gonna go put on my boxing gloves and see if I can knock ‘im out today 🙂
Very inspiring! Thank you!
Jessica says
What a beautiful hymn! And how special to be able to play with all of your sisters. Very talented family. 🙂 I’m sure you would have been sorry later if you hadn’t overcome your fear of playing on stage. I don’t blame you for being afraid, though. I get nervous every time I sing a special in church, etc.
Kate says
Congratulations!! I played piano and it go to the point where playing in public gave me panic attacks. I am so proud (and I am sure your family was ) that you were able to overcome it and face your fear!
Recently I joined my church choir after having an 11 yr span of time since I was in my college choir. When the performance came, I was so nervous I had to wear my jacket because I was sweating so bad. But, I did it and I felt great after.
Thank you so much for sharing this!
Kate
ClareC. says
I’ve been following you for years, Crystal, but somehow I missed that you were a violinist. Thank you for sharing the inspirational story and the beautiful video. What a special memory for you to to share with your sisters.
Amanda says
WooooHooooo!!!!! Way to go, Chick!!!!!
As one who was AT that (awesome) recital, I can confidently say, you didn’t just punch fear in the face, you full-on beat.it.to.the.ground!!!! 😀
I watched you gracefully walk on that stage, saw your composed expression, heard first-hand those strong, beautiful notes… and had NO IDEA you were nervous.
I’m totally doing a happy-dance for you. 😀
Crystal says
Oh goodness! You are way too kind and encouraging. Thank you for this sweet comment!
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Coupons says
Way to go, Crystal! That was beautiful! I’m inspired by your message, as well. I find I avoid things that I’m afraid of…but then I would never grow as a person if I continue that habit! Thanks for the inspiration. 🙂
Kelly says
The video was so very lovely. Thank you for sharing your story.
Jamie Rohrbaugh says
Crystal, that is AWESOME! Yay! Way to go! I had no idea you were a musician. How cool is that. Thanks for sharing the video!!!!!
RuthS says
You guys are talented! Bravo to you for standing up to your fear.
Tina says
Awesome job! I have done the same thing! I played my flute until college and in the last ten years have only taken it out a handful of times, once for church but I wish I did more often. I don’t mind playing with people but on my own is scary, it feels great to punch fear in the face though! Great performance and how great to play with your sisters!
MaryEllen@ImperfectHomemaker says
That was beautiful!
My parents did me a huge favor when I was little. As soon as my piano teacher said I was ready to play in public, I had to do it. I was made to face those fears at a very early age, and now that I’m an adult it’s not something I have to worry about.
I also used to be afraid to talk to people, so they would make me do things like go up to the counter at McDonald’s and order and pay for my own ice cream. If I wouldn’t do it, I just wouldn’t get any dessert. It has helped me tremendously having had to learn to face those fears!
I’m glad they didn’t let me run away from my fears! I now have other fears I have to face, but I already know what it’s like to be on the other side of fear and that it will be worth it to “punch it in the face!”
sarah says
Thank you for this post.
I too am a violinist who has basically put the violin away because of fear. I struggled through college violin lessons and orchestra rehearsals, so overcome with fear and feelings of inadequacy I was unable to practice or perform without breaking down to tears. I had nightmares about being rejected from the Peace Corps because my violin professor declared I “had to skills”. It’s as if every fear, doubt and insecurity about myself, manageable on its own or neatly tucked away so I didn’t have to manage it, manifests at once when a violin is my hand and I’m crippled. I still play for church praise bands on occasion, but I dread it more than enjoy it. Another one of those events is coming up next month. But you give me hope; if you were able to ‘punch fear in the face’ perhaps I can too.
(I haven’t seen the video yet because my work computer blocked it but from the comments I’m sure it beautiful. Way to go!)
Starla says
Somehow this brings tears to my eyes. “Oh LOVE that wilt not let me go, I REST my WEARY SOUL in THEE” Beautiful words to that beautiful music. My sisters and I (there are 4 of us) sang together many times. In fact, we sang a lot as a family and now that we are all grown up scattered across the Americas, we still love to sing when we get together for the holidays.
I’m proud of you, Crystal! You did great!
Jenna says
That was Beautiful! And I know this may sound strange because you don’t know me, but I AM SOOOO PROUD OF YOU! So proud I have tears in my eyes. Because I know that feeling of just wanting to run away and you stayed, no matter how scared you were. Amazing.
Carrie L says
That was lovely, Crystal!! Thanks so much for sharing it with us! I played violin for about 7 years when I was younger, but haven’t touched mine since having kids. (my oldest is 15!) My dream instrument is the cello. Someday, when my youngest is a bit older… 🙂 Just gotta start saving my pennies! 🙂
Kim Sanders says
Bravo. What a beautiful way to start the day, both the post and the beautiful music. Thank you for sharng!
Crystal says
Aw, thank you so much for your kind encouragement!
Courtney says
“Go punch fear in the face” – I love it! You and your sisters did a beautiful job. My 10-year-old daughter is a beginning violin player and I know she will enjoy watching the clip of your performance.
Rose says
How beautiful! A lot of musical talent in your family. very nice. : )
Becky says
All of you did amazing! What wonderful memories you all made & you were a part of making them by facing your fear! My favorite instruments are the violin & the piano. I love them both. I loved this piece of music you & your sisters played! Great job 🙂
Meredith says
Okay, too strange here. I have been battling severe insomnia. I am so stressed out and fearful that I won’t fall asleep. It’s been three weeks of pure exhaustion (yes i have been to the dr) This morning I woke up and said I had had enough and I was just going to unwind and rest tonight and get this fear away. Why does this post speak to me…I’m a professional musician. I can play my oboe in front thousands and it doesn’t even phase me a bit. It’s because I am in a zone and I am comfortable in what I am doing. Laying down on my bed freaks me out. Thanks for this post! You did a great job.
Marie says
Way to go, Crystal!!! You really are an example. You don’t just blog about things and inspire us but you actually do them!!! You punched that fear right in the face! You have such a gift. I always admire those who are musical because I was not gifted in that area AT ALL. But I am always blessed by those who were.
And who knew so many of your readers are violinists.
Kate says
Wow, the timing of this post is spot on for me! This morning I was thinking about my biggest fear–water–and how it holds me back from doing so many things! For a brief moment, I thought “I should just face this fear and conquer it!”, but then the fear said “nooooo!!!”. Within two hours of that internal debate, I got on the computer and read your story! Maybe God is trying to tell me something? You are inspiring–thank you! 🙂
Cathy @ Chief Family Officer says
What a wonderful, inspiring anecdote – thanks for sharing, and good job!
Daniele @ Domestic Serenity says
Along with other commenters…I’m convinced this was written for me too! This Easter weekend, I became convinced of needing to face this exact fear. To pick up the violin and practice/play again.
I took years of lessons, taught for years (which I loved) and just packed it all up due to fear of performing. Thank you so much for this post, the encouragement and your vulnerability….
Diana says
Beautiful! I have been in the exact same situation (with my flute), right down to feeling sick every time I thought of the upcoming performance. I claimed the same verse you did, and the Lord brought me through too! I totally remember the exhilaration when it was done 🙂 Thanks for the encouragement to apply that same spirit to my current biggest fear.
Great job, and I really enjoyed listening to this arrangement! By the way, which sister was the one giving the recital (if she doesn’t mind you sharing…)? All of you were great!
jennifer p says
that was beautiful.good for you for facing your fears.i need to work on that.
Shannon says
Crystal, it was beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing this piece with us and helping us to realize that we can conquer our fears. As always, you are such an inspiration and a great role model.
Ericia says
I loved it! One of my favorite hymns. What a beautiful arrangement and lovely quartet! Great job! Thanks for sharing.
Liz says
Way to go! 🙂
K Quinn says
Aw that’s wonderful! I remember the first time I was asked to play (piano) for my church. I thought they were kidding! Talk about putting your head down between your knees! Thanks for reminding me to practice.
Chelsea says
That was beautiful, you and your sisters are all so talented! I’d love to set you all up in my house to play for me as I go about my to do list each day. Ha! Wouldn’t that be interesting? 🙂
Elizabeth says
That is absolutely wonderful! I decided last week to pull out my guitar and start pushing myself beyond where I am with some lessons so that my daughter, who plays violin, and I can play together. Your post only excited me more!
Sandra says
Bravo! Bellissimo! Crystal, you never cease to amaze me. I so enjoy when you share an intimate part of you. I truly enjoy the strings and the violin in particular is my favorite. You did a wonderful job!
Cheri says
That was beautiful, Crystal. Being a busy collage student (majoring in violin) 🙂 I’ll be tucking away that article for future reading. I too can relate to fears of performing, but I can testify that the more you do it, the easier it becomes. It also helps to think back to the very worse performance ever, and tell yourself that the upcoming one surely won’t be THAT bad. If for some reason it is, you’ll live through it as you did that nightmarish one. 😉
You probably wouldn’t remember, but I used to be on your message boards a LONG time ago, and still have some the sheet music you sold to me. 🙂
Hannah says
You hid behind your stand, for shame. 😉
I’m also a violinist, been playing for twelve years. And yes, I get nervous too when playing for people even though I actually enjoy it (that is if I have something well prepared to play).
Susan in St. Louis says
Yay! Love it! And I’m reading “Do Hard Things” right now and have thought of you often, for I know you have chosen that route in recent years. Thanks for letting God use you to be an example to so many of us, Crystal! 🙂
Kate Craig says
Really encouraging – thanks for sharing!
Laurie @passionatepennpincher.com says
You did great Crystal! I’ve also played violin for years ~ I pulled mine out for the first time last week in months and it felt so wonderful to play for just 30 minutes… reminded me to do something I love so much more often. Thanks for sharing… good for you!
Crystal says
I didn’t know you played the violin! Good for you to pull it out and play. It’s relaxing and fulfilling, isn’t it?!
Laurie @passionatepennpincher.com says
I didn’t know you played either! And just like you, I always hide as far as I can behind the music stand… I can handle playing in front of people so much more confidently if I feel a little hidden.
This weekend our church orchestra played the Hallelujah Chorus, but I haven’t been able to play with them for a few years because of our evening schedules. I realized just how much I missed it, because that’s one of my favorite pieces to play! If nothing else, my goal this week is to pull out that violin part and play at least for a few minutes. Love that you shared this!
Laura Jane @ Super Sweet Life says
Way to go!!! So inspiring. One of my big fears is video blogging. That would mean I would have to put myself on video out there on the public internet for all to see. That’s just terrifying! I’ve done a couple video screencast tutorials where you can hear my voice but see my computer screen – that was terrifying enough. I did 7 takes of my last 90 second screencast video, and I still don’t love it! However, there’s some specific videos I really want to do that would involve me in front of the camera. I had already decided this was the week to tackle it and put in on my weekly goal list. The funny thing is I can do public speaking (sort of, not great at it, don’t love it, but I do it without great terror), but the video camera is more terrifying than a live crowd of 170 people!
Jessica @ The Abundant Wife says
And you say you’re not an artist? I think between writing, cooking, speaking, mothering, photography, and the violin, you have lots of creative artworks in progress! You are an “artist” in many ways. Keep up the good work!
Cindy K says
That is awesome, Crystal. You are a constant inspiration to us all. You continue to amaze me with all your accomplishments. Keep up the great work.
Judy says
Your parents must have been so proud to see their daughters playing together so beautifully after all those years of learning instruments :).
Cristina says
Way to go!! Thanks so much for sharing…I know your intentions were to inspire others, but I’m sure it took a LOT of courage on your part just to post the video so you should be very proud of yourself 🙂
Angie says
That is just awesome!! Thankful you were willing to fight your fears…praise God!
Anna says
How can you deny an audience of something that sounds that beautiful?? Wow 🙂 And I know God what smiling down on you for using a gift that HE has given you! 🙂 Learning the violin has been on my bucket list for 12 years. Thank you for such a great post!
Julie says
CONGRATS! You did it – yay!!!!
As a fellow violinist who had horrible stage fright, I would recommend the book “The Inner Game of Music” It changed everything for me (well that and a teacher who made me solo every week for two years – that woman was determined to get me out playing!)
Lisa says
Inner Game of Music – yes! A great book! Can take the concepts from that book and apply them to many other aspects of life……. Haven’t thought about that book in a long time, thanks!
Melissa says
Oh, wow. That is challenging to me, Crystal. To face a fear like that head on. And I LOVE that song.
Jessica says
Beautiful and congrats!
Angela O says
Beautiful! I’ve always wanted to play the violin.
Julie C says
Bravo!!!! The message of that song is just wonderful and listening to this video is a blessing. Thank you for sharing. You’ve encouraged me tonight with tears of joy.
Michelle Murphy says
WTG! I also play violin and I have some of the same fears. I am not a public person at all. Thanks for the inspiration to “pinch” my fears. 🙂
Leslie says
That was beautiful! I’ve recently taken up violin again, and I’m so inspired by your story and performance.
Bonnie says
Beautiful and inspiring!!!
Bethany says
WAY TO GO — sounds like a very nice arrangements! I was afraid of Public Speaking myself, as many people are. I was hired into a bank for a 6-week boot camp and lo- and behold- they had a 2-day Decker Communications session that we had to attend. 7 video-taped presentations later (oh so gruesome) – we had a huge presentation for the President of our Division. SOOO nervous about that but hitched up my big girl panties and did it (didn’t eat lunch until AFTER the presentation) — now Public Speaking doesn’t bother me as much. I’m not completely comfortable but I know I can do it — that is half the battle. Now if I could only get my fear of worms under control ~~
Sarah says
Wow! Jill Savage commented on your blog post!!!
I agree with Rebekah- being a bit nervous does keep you humble- and dependent on Him. Whenever I get up do do music, I pray the words to the hymn Take My Life: Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of Thy love.
Christin says
Way to go Crystal!! So proud of you!!!
My fear? Public speaking.
Crystal says
Want to know how I’ve gotten over my deathly fear of public speaking? By doing it and doing it and doing it some more. My first few attempts were awful, but slowly, ever so slowly, it’s getting better and better.
If it’s what God is calling you to, go jump out there and just DO IT! I’ll be cheering for you! 🙂
melissa says
Oh goodness! Public speaking has always been one of my fears as well, but I am slowly starting to get more comfortable with it. Tomorrow I am sharing a devotional with my MOPS group. My biggest fear, though, is that I will start crying in the middle of it as it’s a personally emotional topic for me. Well, maybe I’ll get their attention at least!
Sarah says
I’m so proud of you for facing your fear!
I feel exactly the same way about public speaking and singing solo.
Jill Savage says
Good for you, Crystal! I love the concept of punching fear in its face!
Crystal says
Yes, it’s a strong and effective imagery! 🙂
Jen says
Good for you! Beautiful job and what a special memory you made with your sisters! I can so relate to your feelings and I thank you for sharing this with us! How inspiring!
Rebekah Schrepfer says
Beautiful! Great job! I play the piano for church, and I was a music major way back when. I always have the jitters and a tight chest whenever I play. And I think it’s a good thing. It keeps me humble. I love that arrangement. Keep playing!
Connie Snell says
Bless your heart. It’s a beautiful arrangement and I could see your confidence grow by the second. (but I wish we could have seen your face, too! 🙂 ) Congratulations on one-upping your fear!
Rachel Holland says
That was beautiful Crystal! Great job!
JAM says
Wow, Crystal, thanks for posting this. I too am a violinist (amateur), who loves to play but is terrified of performing. I completely choked at an event about two years ago, and even went so far as to get beta blockers from my doctor. Those have allowed me to play without shaking, and since then I’ve done recitals and even played at a friend’s wedding. That you could play up there without shaking and having your bow skip around is pretty impressive! I still get really nervous, but at least the beta blockers control the shaking and pounding. Don’t put your violin away for long though – it is great for your kids to hear you play and learn to love and appreciate music!
Jocelyn
Denise says
Oh my goodness! Did you write this post for me? I played violin from 5th grade through SO year of college and then kind of shelved it too! I did play once in grad school at church because the pastor practically begged me to…
…recently I took my violin into the shop to get looked over and have a slight adjustment made…and I bought an electric tuner (I’ve never had the best of ears for tuning)…and told myself I needed to start practicing again…
…so I think this was meant for me!
PS I LOVE that you play violin!!!
Katrina says
Wow…your post could be mine! I played violin from 3rd- until my early 20’s and then shelved it too, mostly because of kids – we had 4 in 6 years. They are now 2 yr old-8 yr old, and I JUST bought a tuner last week with the intention of picking it up again. Gone are the days I could tune and play from ear. 🙁 I feel I will be starting from scratch as it has been about 10 years since I have played with any regularity.
Cathy says
That was beautiful! Good for you for facing you fears!