The Living Room Trumpet by Tisha Powell

In my living room right next to the fireplace sits an old dented and scratched up trumpet.  It was supposed to be turned into a lamp, but I never got around to that project.  So for now, the musical instrument serves as art.. decoration for the house.  Where did come from?  Well.. my parents bought it for my older sister Nicky for the Caldwell Middle School Cougar Band.  When she quit playing it, the trumpet was handed down to me.  My daughter likes to blow it from time to time.  It sounds like an elephant with a head cold.

I played the trumpet for five years in the concert band.  I always felt lucky to be a member of the brass section while the other girls played flutes and clarinets.  There were never enough trumpets.  I played the piano and clarinet too, but I have to say I enjoyed the trumpet the most.  I still hear music in the part I would have played in the band.  I eventually gave up the trumpet… and the piano… and the clarinet.  I am now an adult with NO musical talent and nothing to show for all the money my parents spent on instruments and lessons.  I can still read music, but what’s the point of reading music you’re not going to play.

Now it’s my daughter’s turn.  She has chosen to learn to play the violin like her father.  She looks forward to lessons every week.  Right now she’s simply learning the parts of the violin and how to hold and care for the instrument.  I remember those afternoons sitting at the piano being forced to practice when I’d rather be playing outside.  I remember my mother whining about how she loved the sound of the piano in the house.  It was pure torture.  I hated every minute. 

I hope when it comes to my daughter and her violin that she’ll have a genuine love for it.  As much as I would love the sound of live classical music in the house, I know I can’t MAKE her enjoy it.  Maybe the idea of playing duets with her dad will inspire her.  You never know.  I could be raising the next Stephane Grappelli.  How long this musical venture will last is anyone’s guess, but I’m going to enjoy it down to the last note.

 

Comments

[Rhonda]

I'm really glad to see that you are allowing your daughter to express herself. Just always remember your torture (I know i do.....clarinet and violin). Nice column.

[Amber]

Let's take piano lessons together! You're never too old to pick up an instrument!

[Cindy Heffner]

What has happened to your co-worker, Francis Scott? People seem to disappear from the show and the audience doesn't know if they are gone for good or temporarily.

[joyce]

You are always cheerful, smiley, and everything in place. Enjoy watching you.

[Timberland Footwear]

I "like" you on Facebook. Would love these for my oldest boy!