On playing instruments

When I was seven years old, I started taking piano lessons at the local parks and recreation center. I don't know if it was because I had any interest in learning or if it was because my parents forced me to, but regardless, I was learning how to play. I remember it being cool taking lessons, but I hated the practicing. We had a small keyboard and my mom was always reminding me to practice, and even though it might have seemed annoying back then, I did get better and I now appreciate what she did for me.

Soon after I began taking lessons, my younger brother, Derek, also started them and we shared this love for playing the piano. One day we asked my dad if we could get a piano for our house and he told us that we could get one after five years of lessons. Five years?! Not too long after we asked (maybe a year), something exciting happened: I remember like it was yesterday- Derek and I came home and there was a piano sitting right there in the living room. I remember us screaming out of excitement and running over to it so we could play.

We eventually got another piano teacher who came to our house to give us lessons, but soon after, we decided that we weren't really learning anything more. My parents didn't push us to find another teacher and I'm so grateful for that. My mom told us that all they wanted was for us to know enough so we would be able to just sit down, play, and enjoy it- and we accomplished that. We started learning songs on our own and to this day, we love it and continue to play a lot whenever we're home. Derek is actually pretty phenomenal.

In fourth grade, I started playing the clarinet. Why the clarinet? Well, it was because the clarinet is small and easy to carry, and we happened to have one in the family. I was pretty good at it, and I think being able to play the piano made it a lot easier. I eventually learned how to play the alto saxophone as well in the 8th grade because it was cooler than the clarinet haha. In high school, I played both- clarinet in the symphonic band and alto in the marching and pep band. I liked marching band so much in high school that I auditioned for the UCLA Marching Band and was accepted. I was in the saxophone section for three years, met so many awesome people, and had some amazing experiences!

Music has played such a monumental role in my life. Being able to play the piano when I'm upset or stressed out is so calming. I also enjoy playing for other people because music is something that everyone can appreciate. When I can, I'll find a piano in the music building at school and just play for a while. I love to play with a lot of passion and emotion and it's such a good outlet during hectic times. I'm so grateful for the people who taught me and encouraged me to learn how to play these instruments.

As a final thought, I'm also trying to learn how to play the guitar, so if you have some time and can be patient with me, I'd appreciate your help.