My Music Background

Discovering the Harmony in My Life

Music has always been an integral part of my life, shaping my creative spirit and emotional wellbeing. 

From my early days in primary school to the present day, my journey through playing various instruments has been one of self-discovery and artistic exploration. 

Join me as I reflect on the stages of my musical adventure, the lessons I’ve learned and the dreams I aim to pursue next.

In My Primary School Years

I didn't learn music the proper way when I was young, although I vaguely remember having played an accordion in my primary school (during music lessons, if I remember correctly). And I vaguely remember telling my father I wanted to learn how to play the accordion, but he was against the idea because to him, it was apparently more important for me to focus on my studies.

In My Upper Primary or Secondary School Years

I learned how to play the recorder during music lessons either in my upper primary or secondary school years. But I didn't really enjoy playing the recorder and so I didn't even bother to keep it.

In My Secondary School Years

I learned how to play the harmonica on my own and I liked how it sounded. And for a couple of years or so, I played it on and off as a hobby. I should have kept it because it didn't require any kind of maintenance and I liked the sound. I'd probably get myself a new harmonica in the near future.

In My Adult Years

I took basic keyboard lessons and piano lessons in my adult years. But I only took proper piano lessons (plus theory) for about one year plus and I learned it on my own thereafter, because I felt it was boring to learn it the proper way. 

Playing the Organ by Ear

I bought myself a secondhand organ a couple of years after I started working. And I learned how to play the organ on my own. My father was apparently amazed by my ability to play the organ without even learning. In fact, I was also amazed because I didn't expect that I could play it relatively well right at the beginning!

Playing the Piano by Ear

I've been playing the piano by ear almost right at the beginning after I bought myself a secondhand piano. Initially, I did try to play English and Chinese pop songs by looking at the music scores. But pretty soon, I realised that I didn't enjoy playing the songs according to the scores. I found it stifling. I realised that I'd never liked learning music the traditional way and it might be the reason why I didn't like having to follow the music scores.

New Digital Piano

A couple of months ago, I bought myself a brand new digital piano as the keys on my acoustic piano were out of tune and it seemed that it wasn't worth it to get proper tuning for it. 

As soon as my fingers touched the keys on the digital piano, I realised that it'd take quite an effort for me to get the right feel. And I regretted buying it. 

But since I've already bought the digital piano, I just have to get used to the different feel. Right? And I'd probably take quite a while to master it because it has a different feel compared to what I'm already used to.

I'm Musically Inclined

For a long time, I've always known that I'm musically inclined. But if I were to learn how to play the piano by taking proper piano lessons until I'd completed my Grade 8 in Piano, I'd probably have ended up hating playing piano and possibly other musical instruments as well.

The Melody Continues

Music has been a constant companion, weaving through different chapters of my life. While I’ve experimented with multiple musical instruments and styles, the essence of my musical journey has always been about expressing myself authentically. 

As I look forward to learning the guzheng and guitar, my focus on creating a harmonious blend of passion and purpose remains. Stay tuned for the next note in my melody of life.

Cheers,

Annie Chan

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