Don't jump to the wrong conclusion—we're talking here about violin, viola, cello, and string basses.
Maybe you learned to play violin at school and haven't touched one since? Or took viola lessons, but got tired of practicing endless scales and variants of Twinkle Twinkle? You might have wanted to make music, but it was just no fun!
Well, there might be a solution—a chance to reawaken that long-hidden enthusiasm.
Resa's Pieces Strings, is a Toronto-based group of over 30 members who meet once a week for rehearsals and perform throughout the year.
Some members took up their instrument as adults, some are reacquainting themselves with it after decades spent apart, but all agree, practicing weekly, playing, and performing for others as a group is a joy not easily missed.
To quote one member, "I never imagined playing music could be such fun. I travel a lot, but plan my trips so as not to miss rehearsals." The much-respected conductor, Ric Giorgi, seems to eke the best out of each player, no matter his or her talent. The one common denominator is a wonderful sense of accomplishment, while simply having fun. His instruction: "If a passage is too difficult, we'll simplify it so you can play it and still contribute to the music."
According to a recent article in the NY Times, at the top of any industry you'll find a musician, and statistically speaking, this cannot merely be coincidence. Music involves collaborating with others, hearing and being heard, discipline, and the capacity to reconcile conflicting themes. It improves creativity and helps to create new neural pathways in the brain, the benefits of which can easily spill over to all other facets of a busy life. And you don't have to be a professional musician, or even have aspirations of becoming one.
Playing music with others in any capacity, whether you just started or haven't played since grade school, is something anyone can do at anytime.
Guided by the mantra, “Do your best and have FUN,” the original 18-member Resa's Pieces Concert Band, now in its 15th year and conducted by Resa Kochberg, has blossomed into an enthusiastic group of over 55 “Pieces.” The Strings ensemble, formed in 2010 under the baton of Ric Giorgi, now number over 35 members and are in their 4th season, with a repertoire spanning Bach to the Beatles.
Rehearsals take place on Monday evenings, and the group plays several concerts throughout the season, culminating in a Gala Concert in early June.
The repertoire includes baroque and classical pieces, show tunes, pop and folk music, jazz standards, and special arrangements penned for the group by some of its own members.
So, perhaps it's time to dust off that old instrument, or maybe time to take up something new that can enrich and benefit all aspects of your life.
You can learn more about Resa's Strings by going to www.resaspieces.org and clicking on "Strings." Or call 416-565 7321.
Classical not for you? You can join the League of Rock to get coached by famous musicians, play live and record a CD.
Have kids who play instruments? Here are 5 Tips To Get Kids To Practice.
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