Become the Master of Your Instrument

It happens often when a musician is unhappy with their musical instrument. Is there a perfect instrument that can satisfy all the needs of a player?

Suppose we are in a situation where we have to use a particular instrument we are not excited about because of finances or other reasons; we must not get trapped in the idea that our choices are limited in producing sound. Beginning students playing a particular instrument might think that having the most incredible instrument might make a difference in their playing. Of course, a great instrument will have a beautiful sound, but in the end, one must understand and learn how to create sound to become the master and the instrument their agent.

Therefore, the important thing is to produce the desired sound on the existing instrument and situation.

Musical instruments come in different qualities and ranges for sound capacity, and the choices are unimaginably vast. We might spend days looking for the perfect instrument but not find what we want. However, instruments come to us for a reason, to learn how to play.

Instruments can also be prone to accidents, and depending on the nature of the damage, each mishap might diminish their capacity for sound. So, we must also be mindful of caring for them to keep them safe and well-protected.

We must remember that we can't always have optimum situations with instruments. Therefore, it is not always necessary to purchase a new instrument. However, it is recommended that we make the situation the best it can be because we are responsible for creating the sound we want from the instrument we have. The instrument can't do everything for us.

Understandably, sometimes, it can be frustrating to work with an instrument that might not respond to our needs the way we want. There is a fine line between where the instrument begins and where the player comes in.

First, instead of being frustrated, we could change our mindset.

We can also ensure that the instrument is in excellent condition and that we have done everything possible for it through professional makers and technicians so that we are confident that the instrument has received the proper care and can produce its maximum sound capacity.

The next thing would be to spend time with that instrument by practicing. If one does not spend the right amount of time on a specific instrument, they will not know what that instrument can do for them. Therefore, an instrument must be given a chance to work.

I have had issues with instruments throughout my life. There have been many instances when I had to play on instruments that I was not necessarily happy with playing.

A personal example would be a cello I don't play on anymore, but I had to play on it for quite some time. I was not too happy with it, but I made the appropriate changes with the help of a violin maker, and the instrument came to life.

Therefore, if you feel stuck with an instrument, take heart and do your best to make the most of the situation. Things can change when you acquire the right instrument for you. But in the meantime, spend time honing your craft and producing the sound you want. That situation can be a learning ground for knowing how to produce sound. It will provide you the basis for a good exercise in becoming the master and not the pupil.

How do you feel about your instrument? Please share with us in the comments below.