Creative Stretching

I'm sure you've heard it said that in order to get yourself out of a creative slump, it can be helpful to try something different. For many writers, that involves exercise, getting outdoors, or a switch to a different creative medium like painting. I am fortunate in that, so far, I haven't had many "slump" moments on my current WIP, however, I do "burn out" a little from time to time. I've done many of these "gear switching" techniques, and they do work, often sending me back to the computer with fresh energy.

What Works for You?

I have been wanting for some time to learn a musical instrument. I tried the recorder. It felt clunky in my hands. I tried guitar. The strings feel foreign, and I don't care for how they wear on my fingertips. But piano seems to work for me. I love piano music. The keys feel natural to me. I like the sound it makes. Music is as much a sensory activity as painting, and I find myself enjoying it. This week, I bit the bullet and purchased a reasonably priced digital piano.

For most of my life, I have refused learning an instrument partly because I hate the songs they teach in the books. I am not a fan of folk music, and if I never hear another rendition of "Comin' Round the Mountain" or "Hot Cross Buns," it'll be too soon. I want to learn songs I love to play, especially in the beginning when I'll be playing them over and over to learn the notes. I think I've finally hit on the right book.

I do enjoy classical music, and one of the first songs this book teaches you is Beethoven's "Ode to Joy."  Day one, and I'm already playing a recognizable song I've always admired. Just as a teacher is only as good as how well they get you to understand a topic, a reference book is only as good as how accessible its information is to the student.

I came back to my New Adult WIP ready to polish off the scene I was writing, and I am excited about it and my budding new skill. It's good for a brain to stretch its limits, and you're never too old to learn something new. Wish me luck!