A Life Long Experience

by Jim
(Savannah, GA)

My father was a guitar teacher (jazz) but thought I did not have a real interest in the instrument. In a way I was the shoemaker's son that went barefoot. We were together when I first heard Segovia play and at that time I knew I had to learn to play in the classical style.

I started lessons when I was 35 years old. I progressed rapidly and soon was equal in some respects to my teacher, Unfortunately I was in an auto accident and broke my neck.

My recovery was slow and I lost a lot of strength in my left arm and hand. My neck was fused and it was hard to sit and play comfortably. Sadly, I put the instrument away for several years.

I again started studying and love the sound much more than before. My playing is a little slower but realize that I am now 74 years old. It is hard to believe that almost 40 years has gone by.

To parents of young children, I say please put those x-boxes away, introduce your child to classical music, this will be a gift for a lifetime. To students, keep at it, don't give up.