[Becky]

Hi Mike! Welcome! You are in a good place and Steve is an awesome teacher, regardless of your skill level. I also took a “break” after college…. Only mine lasted about 40 years. It happens! LOL

After I started playing again, the one thing that has boosted my playing the most, has been playing every single day. The only days I take off are illness or when I work into the late hours and I am exhausted. Playing consistently has really made a huge difference. I highly recommend it, if you possibly can do it. I realize it is more difficult with small children, but do your best. It doesn’t have to be a full blown practice session. Maybe just run through the head of a song you learned last month in Steve’s studio. Anyway, the goal to play every day is an amazing thing to kick start your playing!

I use an app to track my days I play and to record what I practiced or worked on. It’s good to keep track every day what you worked on. I also write a note on how I felt it went. That helps me see my progress easier.

Anyway, that is what has helped me. So WELCOME! Good to have you here! Enjoy! And Happy Holidays to you and yours!

[Becky]

Been seeing you at the Live feeds, Alain. Thought I would read a bit about you. I am envious you have a Jazz Band with which to play! There are way too many great jazz musicians in my town to have room for someone who can’t improvise her way out of a paper bag! LOL I am known for my classical playing and that’s what I do get to do. I am grateful for this.

I also work full time, but in healthcare. Our “day jobs” are a far cry from music. Academia and healthcare are both very essential in our world, but music helps make the world a more beautiful place.

I love that you talk about not getting hung up on ego, but just playing. I think there’s no other way to learn. Looking forward to seeing you more. I would love to see a post of what you are working on.

[Becky]

What a job caring for your elderly parents. I moved back to my home town to care for mine, although both have now passed. It is hard to see the parents who taught you everything ravaged by age and/or disease. But you are so good to care for them. It is not always easy. A noble service, indeed.

I suspect you will be great on the stage blowing some blues! If I were nearby, I would cheer you on in person! Take care!

[Becky]

Thanks for the welcome, Robert. Part of what makes this online thing a positive experience is the interaction. 😊. Looking forward to having this experience as a group with encouragement, support, sharing expertise, and of course, Steve’s incredible knowledge base and tutelage. 🤓

[Becky]

OK Steve… I took the plunge and joined the Studio. I really dug the YT live you just did and I continually can’t get over what a super nice guy you seem to be! And of course, no one would argue you got da chops!

You told me once you are a converted classical player. I am hoping you are able to relate to my plight coming from training in the classical world and where my brain might be stuck when it comes to improv. I have made tiny improvements over the last year, but no giant steps. (Haha. Pun intended.) Anyway, my concert season starts after Labor Day and I am scheduled for major surgery in November, (nothing awful – need a knee replaced) but other than that, (and my full time day job!) I am looking forward to jumping into the September tune and seeing what nuggets I can take away to improve my meager abilities!

See you soon.