First!

So here's my blog regarding my latest hobby/obsession which is the cello.  Before last Saturday, February 19 2011, I couldn't spell cello and now I can play 7 notes on one.  I plan to share my success and struggles here, mostly for my own benefit.  It is encouraging to remember how far we've come.  Also, I eventually want to connect with other musicians in the area.

Last Saturday was my first lesson with Tim Anderson, a professional cellist in the Baltimore area.  He is very encouraging.  We covered everything from how to transport the thing, how to take it out of the case, hold it, tune it, maintain it and eventually play it.  We did get some playing in.  In addition to the 4 open strings the first 3 notes with the left hand.  I've had 2 practice sessions on my own so far.  I must not be holding the bow right because the muscle that connects to my thumb is aching today.  I get frustrated when I want to hurry up and get to playing "real" music.  Like yesterday I was practicing the same freakin' exercise for 20 minutes and still couldn't get it right.  I was successful in playing "Mary had a Little Lamb".  I was reading another blog by a guy who had played blues guitar for more than 20 years and decided to learn the cello.  He said it was humbling to struggle through "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" on the cello after playing with professional musicians on the guitar.

Hopefully I'll get to practice some tonight.  Read a good blog post from some instructors talking about how to hold the bow.  I know I need help with that as after playing for 10 minutes my hand aches so I must be doing it wrong.