mewarmo990

Wow, what a great discussion. I feel a little out of place, being only a high school junior, but I figure I'd throw in my two cents.

I've been playing piano since I was 3, happily starting at first but forced to continue by my parents for most of the time since. At times, I practiced with vigor and participated in concerts and recitals often. Other times, I loathed the piano and wanted nothing to do with the often frustrating hours of practice that it required.

To skip the life story, piano at this stage in my life is something I could never do without. I think my parents eased off their overbearing influence since they realized I rekindled my passion and enjoyment of music during middle school. Not to boast, but I am not exactly ungifted at piano, although I don't plan on attending a music school or conservatory of any kind since my focus has turned to academics and college applications next year. Still, I turn to my piano to relieve stress, I tackle harder songs whenever I can, and even work on compositions when I'm (really) bored at school. Honestly, I can't imagine my life or identity without music, and I'm glad my parents pushed me back then.

It's weird; a lot of friends I know have played an instrument at some time or another, quitting after a few years. I don't plan to ever major in piano, but to me stopping after fourteen years makes those hundreds of hours of blood and sweat worthless. This is something I plan to keep with me for the rest of my life.

Chazmire

Great post, mewarmo. It sounds like you really have a good grasp of your priorities and of who you are. The posts in this thread have shone so much light on this issue for me. This website is just invaluable.

I'm trying hard to back off, while still applying enough pressure to make sure my son doesn't lose his focus as he navigates his own rough waters. Very difficult, as I realize how much I am personally invested in his musical life. This is the area I really need to back away from, as he very well could follow his older brother's lead and decide not to make music his goal for college and life. It would be devastating for me, as I see how much talent and upside he has, but that is not a healthy place for me to be. So I'll keep some pressure on, into his junior year, and then I'll let him be his own guide. That will give me the time I need to divest myself from the process, if I can.