Piano blues/ parental discouragement

Lounge
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My mom has always said things about me not having what it takes to use music as a career. This is after winning North American (US + Canada) piano competitions and after being hired by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra to play piano. I stopped playing long ago due to 2 things: injury at a job I did in a trim shop, and then brain lesions that made music difficult for me. But those comments still hurt, maybe especially so now.

Well I sent my mom a text explaining that to her 15 minutes ago. And read it but hasn’t responded.

Basically, she has always wanted me to play by myself and not consider it anything more than that. And that hurts. I’d like her to understand my passion and my pain in regards to piano.

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sorry you had to deal with those limiting suggestions, comments like that can be harmful

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Sorry @Lilyofthevalley about that..

I was waterpolo first team,went to tonsil operation,and lost training skills ..

My father still calles me failure …

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That’s very painful @Milk . It’s hard when an illness or injury gets in the way and people kick you while you’re already down.

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Thanks @POET . I am going to need to grow thicker skin. It’s a little too easy to hurt me

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oh I do hope you will audition for another orchestra…think of how refreshing to your spirit that would be…my mom tried to get me to play cello for the okla. city orchestra…it fell out…but you can play again…don’t give up !!

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Thanks @jukebox . I just had my first piano lesson since 1999. It’s been a long time. It went well and I enjoyed it a lot. It’s good to play and get fresh perspective. I stopped playing long ago. I’ve missed it

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well I’d imagine you are starving deep down to play well again…good luck with your piano…I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t have my guitar.

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I couldn’t have said it better myself. I’m glad you have your guitar

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I retired from the music world due to stress from performances. I think your mother doesn’t think you could handle the stress and responsibility and public pressure. You can either prove her wrong and play professionally or just do what you are comfortable for your private enjoyment.

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I used to play guitar at church and jazz band in college I also enjoyed making EDM music on my computer but can’t do it anymore

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@Rainstorm i sang in a vocal jazz group in college. It was fun.

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I sang in acapella choir in high school and choir in college too

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That’s awesome @Rainstorm . Singing a capella is fun :slight_smile:

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oh lily do you play 'moonlight sonata" by beethoven? it’s my favorite piano piece.

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Yes I can play that, just not as well as I used to because I stopped playing the piano many years ago. But I sat down and played it yesterday actually @jukebox

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oh lovely…I just played it on Spotify I had to hear it…beautiful…yaayyy you played it.

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I love that you play/played piano. That’s so awesome, more reasons to be inspired by you !!! you’re the best!!

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Awe. Thanks @Mr.Apple ! I’m not special, lots of people play piano well. And I’ve got my work cut out for me to regain what I’ve lost. But thank you!

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I’ve thought about this. I don’t think my skin is thick enough to make another go at it. And I hadn’t considered that it might be my emotions rather than my skills and passion that my mom has referred to. You may be right

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