Playing an instrument can be a very rewarding experience but I have always found that it is much more fun playing in a group.
Long hours are spent in solitude when you learn to play an instrument. To truly master the music you must be dedicated to the practice routine and practice over and over until the muscle memory kicks in. There are times when you are playing for family or playing in a lesson for a teacher but mostly practice is done alone.
Think about it, most things are more fun when you have friends with similar interests that join in. Playing games, watching a movie, going to the theatre, going out to dinner, almost anything is better with friends.
Besides being a social activity, playing in a group also has a lot of musical benefits. These include:
- learning to listen and to stay in tune
- following a beat that is measured by the conductor
- improving sight reading skills
- becoming motivated to improve by surrounding yourself with others that play well
- the opportunity for performance experience
- working together as a team
If you or your child are learning to play an instrument, it is really worthwhile looking for some local groups that you can join, or try to think of some friends that you can play with, on a regular basis. Some examples of local groups are the Campbelltown Camden District Band, the Picton Strings, the Fishers Ghost Youth Orchestra, Campbelltown Theatre Group and numerous church choirs and instrumental groups that exist in the local area.
These local organisations often have training groups that you can join if you are a beginner. Bands and Orchestra’s also hold concerts or public performances where you can experience their performance and see if that group might be a match for you
The Campbelltown Camden District Band is a group that I have been involved with for the last 34 years and we are holding our annual concert next weekend on Sunday 25th October at 2pm in the Camden Civic Centre. All of the training groups will get the opportunity to perform at this concert as well as the main Wind Ensemble and Youth Band. Coma along for a great afternoon of entertainment, tickets are only $10 and available to purchase at the door.
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