Greetings, everyone, and welcome to my musical journey. As I return to the violin after years away, I'm rediscovering the magic of music—not just as sound, but as a full-body experience.

Have you ever heard that old riddle, "If a tree falls in the woods and there's no one around, does it still make a sound?" While it's true that without ears to collect the vibrations, there would be no audible sound, there's so much more to sound, and therefore music, than just what we hear. The vibrations created, the tones and pitches produced—these are all integral parts of the musical experience.

Think about the last time a piece of music moved you. Perhaps it was a violinist drawing out a long, emotive note that seemed to vibrate through your very core. Or consider when Luciano Pavarotti, the legendary tenor, hit his famous high C—a feat he was uniquely capable of. Not only did it sound fantastically beautiful, but it would shake you to your core. You'd feel that vibration, that chill going through every part of you, because of that sound.

This is why music is so powerful: when you feel that vibration, tone, or pitch, it becomes more than just an audible experience. It's a physical sensation, an emotional resonance, a connection to something greater than ourselves. I believe music can be truly transformative in so many ways.

Music is, in essence, organized vibrations. When a violin string is plucked or bowed, it creates waves that travel through the air, reaching our ears as sound. But it doesn't stop there. These vibrations can shake us, chill us, and move us in ways that transcend mere hearing. It's this transformative power that drew me back to the violin and inspired this Substack series.

In the coming weeks, I'll be sharing my experiences as I relearn the violin, exploring the science and art of music, and discussing how this journey is reshaping my understanding of sound, creativity, and personal growth.

Without further ado, let's begin this adventure together. Whether you're a fellow musician, a music lover, or simply curious about the power of pursuing a passion, I hope you'll find something here that resonates with you.

  Introduction:

Imagine a world where every note of music not only soothes the soul but also ignites a profound sense of empowerment. As I return to the violin after years away, I'm rediscovering the magic of music—not just as sound, but as a full-body experience that transcends mere hearing. This journey has led me to explore the science and art of music, reshaping my understanding of sound, creativity, and personal growth.

For those of us who are blind, our heightened sense of hearing enables us to truly feel and express music in unique ways. I believe that learning and playing music can be an incredibly empowering experience, breaking down mental barriers and instilling a sense of accomplishment and capability. In this article, I'll share my personal journey, discuss the benefits of music for blind individuals, and offer insights for anyone interested in embarking on their own musical adventure.

  My Musical Journey:

  Rediscovering the Violin

Twenty years ago, I purchased a violin with the intention of teaching myself to play. However, I was quickly humbled by the instrument's complexity, and it remained untouched for many years. After losing my vision and finding myself with ample time, my mother-in-law introduced me to a violin instructor. Those initial lessons were transformative, as I learned to produce sound instead of noise. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted my progress, leaving me with a lingering regret for letting my practice lapse.

  Returning to Music

Recently, my wife and children reignited my passion by gifting me violin lessons for my birthday. Today, I began my lessons with an amazing instructor who is both patient and adept at explaining techniques in ways I can visualize. Despite being about 20 years my junior, her dedication to playing and practicing from a young age inspires me to put in the effort to learn.

As a blind violinist, I face unique challenges alongside the usual hurdles of learning a complex instrument. I cannot read traditional sheet music or visually check my bow and finger placements. However, my instructor's detailed explanations and creative teaching methods allow me to learn effectively. Music, being fundamentally about sound, is an area where I am uniquely positioned to excel, given my reliance on hearing.

  Learning Techniques

During my lessons, we focus on proper posture, bowing techniques, and finger placements. We've developed a system of numbering finger positions and learning the corresponding notes to help me better understand and visualize the music. My instructor has introduced me to exercises like "Mississippi Hotdog" and "Grasshopper, grasshopper" to practice hand and arm movements typical of violin playing.

For example, the "Mississippi Hotdog" exercise teaches the movement of the bow up and down on the string with each syllable, stopping at the end of each word. These seemingly amusing exercises are incredibly effective in developing muscle memory for proper technique.

  Overcoming Challenges

To address the challenge of not being able to visually check my form, my instructor provides detailed verbal descriptions and uses tactile cues. We've placed thin strips of tape on the underside of the violin neck and raised stickers on the fingerboard to mark key positions, helping me develop muscle memory.

For reading music, I'm exploring alternatives such as learning by ear and using Braille music notation. Technology has been a great asset, with apps that can convert sheet music to audio descriptions or Braille output.

  The Science of Music and the Brain

Research has shown that musical training can lead to structural changes in the brain, potentially enhancing other auditory skills crucial for blind individuals. A study published in the journal Neuropsychologia found that blind individuals who played an instrument showed increased brain plasticity and improved auditory perception compared to those who didn't play music.

This neuroplasticity extends beyond just auditory processing. Learning an instrument can enhance spatial reasoning, memory, and cognitive flexibility. For blind individuals, these benefits can be particularly significant, potentially aiding in spatial awareness and navigation skills.

  Benefits of Music for Blind Individuals

1. Cognitive Development: Learning an instrument enhances spatial reasoning and memory.

2. Emotional Expression: Music provides a powerful outlet for emotions and self-expression.

3. Social Connections: Playing music creates opportunities for social interaction and community building.

4. Confidence Building: Mastering an instrument boosts self-esteem and confidence.

5. Stress Relief: Engaging with music has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety.

6. Enhanced Auditory Skills: Musical training can improve overall auditory perception and processing.

  Future Goals

While I don't aspire to be a first-chair violinist or even to play in front of an audience, I'm committed to learning, enjoying the process, and having fun along the way. One of my primary goals is to play "Spiegel im Spiegel" (Mirror in the Mirror) by Arvo Pärt, a piece that brings me immense joy and relaxation.

This minimalist composition features a simple arpeggio on the piano with slow notes on the violin, creating a serene and meditative atmosphere. When I hear it, I envision floating through the tranquility of space, past the sun and planets, and into other galaxies, viewing their wonderful colors and shapes in my mind's eye.

While "Spiegel im Spiegel" may sound simple, mastering the long, sustained notes and precise intonation required will be a significant challenge for me as a beginner. The piece demands exceptional breath control and bow technique to maintain the purity of each note, skills that will take time and dedication to develop.

  A Message to Fellow Blind Individuals

To my fellow blind readers, I encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and learn an instrument. Music has the power to liberate us from feelings of inadequacy and to uplift our spirits. The only thing holding us back is our own mental shackles and fears. Embrace the challenge, listen, feel, and let music empower you.

Nurture an adventurous spirit, for life and personal growth can be found in the journey through the unexplored. The process of learning and pushing yourself through difficult situations will foster grit, resilience, and resourcefulness, which I believe are integral to life and survival in any situation.

  Conclusion

As I continue this musical journey, I am committed to sharing my experiences, tips, and tricks along the way. This adventure is not just about learning to play the violin but also about discovering new ways to overcome challenges and achieve liberation through music.

I invite you to explore the world of music with me. Whether it's the violin, piano, guitar, or even just listening to music, let the sounds guide you to new heights of emotional and physical well-being. Together, we can break free from limitations and experience the joy of music in its purest form.

  Resources for Blind Musicians

For those interested in starting their own musical journey, here are some helpful resources:

1. National Resource Center for Blind Musicians (www.blindmusicstudent.org)

2. American Foundation for the Blind - Music Education (www.afb.org/blindness-and-low-vision/music-education)

3. Dancing Dots - Accessible Music Technology (www.dancingdots.com)

4. RNIB Music Advisory Service (for UK readers) (www.rnib.org.uk/practical-help/reading/braille-and-moon-tactile-codes/music-braille)

5. CNIB Foundation - Music Programs (www.cnib.ca)

6. Coalition for Music Education in Canada (www.coalitioncanada.ca)

7. The Canadian National Institute for the Blind - Music Education Resources (www.cnib.ca/en/programs-and-services/learn/music-education)

8. Canadian Music Centre (www.musiccentre.ca) - They may have resources or programs for visually impaired musicians

Thank you for reading. I'd love to hear about your experiences with playing a musical instrument or songs you listen to that evoke a special feeling. Comment below and let’s start a conversation. Until we meet again. And if we don’t, farewell.