Should You Quit Playing Oboe After Years of Practice?
Many musicians find themselves in a similar situation: after years of dedicated practice, they begin to feel that their skills are stagnating or even decreasing. This article aims to offer guidance for those considering whether to continue or quit playing the oboe. We will explore practical advice and suggestions for overcoming challenges and reigniting the passion for this unique instrument.
Your Journey with the Oboe
It's been over eight years since you started playing the oboe, a journey from 9 to 17 years old. This period has undoubtedly seen you grow and develop significantly as a player. However, in recent years, you've noticed a dramatic decrease in your playing ability and no longer find joy in it. You're at a crossroads, wondering if it's time to quit. Let's explore the pros and cons of continuing versus ending your oboe journey.
The Path to Consider: Don't Quit
No! Don’t Quit—It's never too late to reassess and rediscover your love for the oboe. At 8 years, you can still play fairly well, and now, you may be ready to handle more challenging material. The key is to focus on playing for the sheer pleasure of it, rather than just for technical achievement.
Take a Break from the Heavy Stuff
Taking a step back from intense, demanding pieces can help renew your enthusiasm. Consider exploring lighter music or even non-oboe repertoire that resonates with you. There are countless free music resources available, where you can find tracks from Mario, classical favorites, and even light jazz or swing pieces. Playing these for a while can reignite your passion and remind you of why you started in the first place.
Consider Changing Your Repertoire
Your difficulty with group performances might be contributing to the decline in your enjoyment. Different genres and styles offer unique challenges that can keep your practice interesting. Perhaps exploring a different genre, like swing or blues, could provide a fresh perspective and bring back the fun. The oboe is a versatile instrument that can handle a wide range of music—don't limit yourself to just classical excerpts.
Reflecting on Your Performance
It's not uncommon for skills to plateau or even deteriorate if you're not finding joy in the practice. This is where taking a step back, reevaluating, and possibly changing your approach can be beneficial. For instance, if you've been struggling with your Koto skills, you might have found that reducing the difficulty for a while made the comeback to tougher pieces smoother and more enjoyable.
Seeking Guidance and Support
Engaging with experienced players, attending workshops, or joining online communities can provide insights and support that can help you navigate your current challenges. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can also be incredibly empowering.
Conclusion: Reclaim Your Passion
Deciding whether to quit or continue playing the oboe is a deeply personal choice. If you're not enjoying it anymore, it's important to address why and see if there's a way to reignite the flame. Taking a break, trying new genres, and seeking support can make a significant difference. Don't let the fear of stopping forever discourage you from even taking a little rest and exploring what brought you to this beautiful instrument in the first place.