Make some noise, with a little help from Rockin’ Rick.
“Rockin’” Rick Shermack has been in the music business a long time. You probably remember him from the old Axe Music commercials; now you can find him at Long & McQuade on 118th Ave. A lot has changed in the music industry over the years and despite changing trends, people will always be drawn to the healing power of music. Accordingly, Long & McQuade teaches an incredible 35,000 music lessons each week across Canada. Lessons are accessible and affordable. For $25/half hour, you can get started on anything from drums to vocal lessons without leaving your bubble. Sure, you may drive your loved ones crazy (no one wants to hear the beginning chords to Smoke on the Water over and over), but learning a new instrument is a rewarding hobby. Adult learning helps maintain an active mind and boost overall wellbeing. There are even electronic drum kits with headphones if you are feeling considerate of the neighbours.
One of the most easily accessible beginner instruments is the ukulele and there has been a huge increase in demand in recent years.
Ukuleles are inexpensive, have only four strings, and can usually be played by a beginner within a few weeks after learning a few basic chords. The guitar has a slightly longer learning curve, but Shermack says within 4-6 weeks of lessons, you can be playing many popular songs as they use only 3-5 basic chords.
Musical instruments can be investment pieces that give your décor a personal touch. A baby grand piano or hanging guitar collection is a great conversation starter and visual connection between music and art, though you don’t need a big financial commitment to get started. You can explore your musical side no matter how little budget or space you have. Vocal lessons, for example, don’t have any up front costs and can be done anywhere you are comfortable making noise.
A lot has changed in the music industry over the years and despite changing trends, people will always be drawn to the healing power of music.
After my conversation with Rockin’ Rick, learning an instrument seems fun, affordable, and much less intimidating. There is no doubt, as 2020 draws to an end, that we could all use a little more music in our lives.
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