It’s never too late to pull some strings

Heather Ainsley
ECB Publishing, Inc.

An estimated 85 percent of children in America currently play or have played a musical instrument at some point in their lives. This musical statistic takes a tragic turn as these children grow up into adolescence and adulthood, however, with just 42 percent of adults between the ages of 35 to 50 still currently playing a musical instrument in their adult lives. As we grow up, life becomes increasingly busy and demanding, leaving less time for hobbies like music, and most adults turn their focus primarily on functioning and surviving in “the daily grind.”
For many, the love of playing an instrument never leaves, even if opportunity and ability to make time for playing does. It is often much easier to get into string or band activities as a child, as many school programs include musical elements for students. But what of adults who wish to resume their old musical antics? Prioritization of life passions becomes a priority all its own as we find a good work-life balance, and many adults are seeking out ways of resuming old, forgotten joys. Helping with this is The Late Start String Ensemble of Jefferson County, now accepting new members!
Late Start is intended for adults who have played a string instrument in the past, or who have at least one year of lessons, and want to play with members of their community recreationally. The string instruments in this venture, according to group leader Tammy Brookins, are violin, viola, cello and bass. Participants must bring their own instruments and gear, and the group will provide chairs and music stands.
“This will be an organized, casual community group,” says Brookins, “This idea is for people who want to play or love to play, but don't make a living at it or for those who don't have an outlet for the desire to play with a group.”
The group is still accepting new members, and anyone who is interested in joining the group can contact Tammy Brookins via text at (850) 210- 3653 or by email at tammybrookins@gmail.com. The group is currently completely free to join, but if it grows and a larger space is required to accommodate everyone, members may be asked to pitch in to pay rent on a space, as needed.
Many Americans give up on things they really enjoy doing because they don't have the proper time or creative space to do them. This group hopes to fulfill a recreational place in the hearts of local music hobbyists, and may even perform at local events like Christmas in Monticello, the Watermelon Festival and other events in the community. While those plans are still far off in the making, The Late Start String Ensemble is certainly pulling strings to rekindle the love of music for the adults of Jefferson County!