Created with Canva from this
Hi there. I haven't gotten into the new wave of #weekend-engagement idea. When it switched to posts, I was on a creative drought. However, bit by bit all my ideas are coming out of the fog of blockage and well, this weekend's Design and Create is a perfect time to come back.
What I love to create besides my instruments are videos playing said instruments. It is my venue to showcase my work. I don't own a workshop yet, nor have a huge stock of instruments at my disposal. But that will change soon enough. I'm enjoying my time learning and growing.
There's an important connection between an Artist and the Art this person creates. Earlier this year, a former Music Teacher asked me what did it feel to playing something that was made by my own hands. I couldn't help myself but say It's F*cking Great. Needless to say, he blasted in this sort of joyous laughter and replied I bet it is!
All the effort we put in the things we do always pays off somehow. It isn't guaranteed we will get the reaction we seek, but there will always be something to reap of it. And it's part of an Artist's job to keep an open minds towards public reactions.
In previous posts, I have talked about going back to music classes. I've been taking Soloist Cuatro lessons from a great teacher. The purpose of this is twofold. First, I always wanted to play Venezuelan Cuatro like a Soloist. It is a complex task, but the results are surely rewarding. Second, because I want to be the one to spot my mistakes as a luthier. Playing the instrument and knowing how it's built sounds like a great quality control combo. And it ensures also that I have more content to show around here and anywhere else. Thus, getting more clients, making music, creating art and being happy.
I made this short video because I learnt to play this very easy song this way earlier this week. It is a beautiful Christmas Carol composed by Franz Xaver Gruber. It's English name is Silent Night. In Spanish, we call it Noche de Paz. A great translation for the idea of silence meaning peace as well. With no further a due, here's my solo for this piece. There's thousands of ways to play this in the Venezuelan Cuatro. All of them exploit the versatility of this instrument. I was careful enough as to keep some measure of sweetness and mellowed tones.
It's also a message of Merry Christmas to all people around HIVE. And in general, Merry Holidays to everyone. May you in these days respite from the ordeals of nowadays life. I'll keep all of you in my wishes for health and prosperity.