Too old to learn an instrument? Think again

From Tom Waite, Banjo Student at Penny Lane Emporium

To all pre-retirees and actual retirees

The largest and scariest thing we have as retirees is staying challenged and active.  Being a former educator, I was prepared to write a quite lengthy dissertation on how the arts, particularly music has saved my life.  I was going to write in detail about how activity of the hands, eye, and brain helps to resist depression, feelings of uselessness, and a general sedentary life style.  I was going to discuss in length how motor skill activity pushes back the arthritis clock.  Probably the most significant benefit of motor skill activities is the awakening of a special creative part of the brain which will add years to your life.  It’s worthy of a Google. Just Google the word(s) (Music, brain and synapse) and check it out.  A new world opens up for you.  As a sidebar, unlike a painting or craft of where there is some sort of tangible final product to clutter our domain, music offers a new (non-residual) creation every time you pick it up.  Let’s get to the point. We’re not getting any younger.  Maybe you played an instrument way back in school and haven’t played anything since high school homecoming, 40 years ago, because you have been busy working and doing life.  Well, soon life is going to be doing you.  This is where the Folks at Penny Lane, specifically Armando and Stacy can help.  I have always been interested in the banjo.  After a few attempts at the large chain music stores where making large sales are more important than your new hobby, I found Penny Lane.  The people at Penny Lane will help you select a base instrument and encourage you through lessons and group activities.  The ukulele opportunities alone are amazing. With a few lessons and practice you can be strumming along with your favorite tunes.  Do this for yourself. You’ve spent a lifetime doing for others.  Eight years after taking up the banjo I have been able to foster an interest in music with my grandchildren.  We enjoy our evenings together jamming and singing the old songs.  Imagine hanging out with your family (the way families used to) with the TV off, what a concept! Get started by treating yourself to a visit to Penny Lane Emporium at Oakland Park and US1 tell them ….Tom Waite,    sent you.

Tom Waite, retired 66 years old, married to Cheryl for 34 years, former technical instructor for Broward Schools, six children and 18 grandchildren. Tom has played banjo now for about eight years and has adopted 4 banjos from Penny Lane. His Deering Goodtime Banjo (his beginning banjo) has been handed down to his grandchildren while Tom practices everyday on his Deering Calico, EVERYDAY!!

Tip #1.  Keep instrument within eye site and reach (get a stand), never tuck away in a case.

#2. Practice does not make perfect, perfect practice makes perfect.  Slow it down and do not practice mistakes.

#3.   Do not practice long, practice a lot of short sessions, be patient with yourself.  It’s a marathon.

Tom’s Motto:      Just “Pick” the kind of day you want to have…..