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They say you are never too old to learn something new. But Jane Slade exceeded her wildest expectations as she reports.<\/p>\n
\u201cI inherited a much loved but battered viola from an old family friend about a year ago,\u201d explains Jane, 58.<\/p>\n
\u201cI had learned the piano as a child and sung in choirs yet I\u2019d never played a stringed instrument. But when I opened that battered case, a sad forlorn viola seemed to call \u2018learn to play me\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n
Fortunately she found an inspirational teacher, Aled Jones, who studied at the Royal College of Music and plays viola with the London-based Quartet Volute.<\/p>\n
\u201cI feel so lucky finding a teacher like Aled, and really look forward to my lessons. He comes to my house which is fantastic. He has the patience of a saint, encourages rather than bullies and makes the lessons fun.\u201d<\/p>\n
Safe to say Jane became quickly addicted and after a few lessons upgraded her viola and bow and after 10 months passed her grade 3 exam with distinction.<\/p>\n
\u201cI worked so hard,\u201d she added. \u201cBecause I enjoyed it (most of the time) and was desperate to improve.<\/p>\n
\u201cI never thought at my age I could progress so fast. But while my fingers still work I want to continue. I have just fallen in love with the viola\u2019s lovely rich sound and range.<\/p>\n
She now plans to attend an introduction to chamber music course at Benslow music centre in Hitchin and take her grade 5 in the summer.<\/p>\n
\u201cLearning an instrument at any age is a fun and satisfying experience, says Aled, 31, who has been teaching for six years.<\/p>\n
\u201cEven though learning an instrument is undoubtedly challenging, the rewards of perfecting a technique or giving a great performance make all the hard work and determination worthwhile.<\/p>\n
\u201cI see it all the time. Music is a wonderful social activity too. From chamber groups right though to orchestras, there are opportunities at every skill level to get involved and perform with other people.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s also a fantastic way of keeping the mind active and focused and to channel self expression.<\/p>\n
“Jane epitomises the most important qualities any teacher could wish for in a student – determination, focus and a great sense of fun!”<\/p>\n
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