BigChrisW
'68 Special
- Joined
- Sep 25, 2022
- Messages
- 238
I've been a musician for as long as I can remember (I'm 54 now). Started on drums at six and took up the trombone at 7. Found the guitar after my sister received one for Christmas when I was about 14 ("whatever you do, don't let Chris get hold of it" - quote from my sister). I'm naturally quite musical and have a good ear for melody. I took to the guitar immediately and, aided by the passion of bands like The Alarm and Big Country, headed into a life of obsessive guitar playing. I've had some of my best experiences with a guitar in my hand and played some amazing gigs. I'm ok at it; good enough to entertain a pub full of drunken customers singing along to the songs my band (Milky Joe) chooses to play.
The thing is, and maybe I'm not alone, is my confidence takes a nose dive on a regular basis. Recording is a nightmare for me as I can't relax and let it flow; I'm the same in a gig if I know there are other guitar players in the audience. I'm terrible in a music shop... I sound like a beginner! Is this normal? I think it's basically imposter syndrome and it hits me hard in all walks of life. What a shame!
The purpose of this post is not to garner sympathy but to remind me that I should enjoy my guitar playing just because I'm alive and still able to enjoy it! It's too easy to overlook the fun that I have and the enjoyment I give to others through my guitar playing and singing. I'm fortunate that I own some lovely guitars and other related gear and I still get out to play regularly. Even if I didn't get out to play I can spend a happy hour or two simply noodling.
To hell with moments of doubt; I will enjoy my guitars and all that they bring!
(this post is sponsored by whisky)
The thing is, and maybe I'm not alone, is my confidence takes a nose dive on a regular basis. Recording is a nightmare for me as I can't relax and let it flow; I'm the same in a gig if I know there are other guitar players in the audience. I'm terrible in a music shop... I sound like a beginner! Is this normal? I think it's basically imposter syndrome and it hits me hard in all walks of life. What a shame!
The purpose of this post is not to garner sympathy but to remind me that I should enjoy my guitar playing just because I'm alive and still able to enjoy it! It's too easy to overlook the fun that I have and the enjoyment I give to others through my guitar playing and singing. I'm fortunate that I own some lovely guitars and other related gear and I still get out to play regularly. Even if I didn't get out to play I can spend a happy hour or two simply noodling.
To hell with moments of doubt; I will enjoy my guitars and all that they bring!
(this post is sponsored by whisky)