Everyone has a song to sing!

As a late arrival to the music world, I sometimes wonder whether my opinions are as valid as those of the lifers — the people who seem to have been born with a guitar attached to their ribs or drumsticks in place of fingers.

Music is a little like an opinion: it is different for everyone. People gravitate towards different styles, instruments, and genres. They learn at different speeds, have different goals, and can dedicate varying amounts of time to the pursuit. Whether it’s a part-time hobby, a chance to join a session, a solo project, or a place in a rock band, music — like an opinion — is unique to each musician.

The guitar was always the instrument I wanted to learn. I’ve been playing for over 15 years now and plan to keep learning for as long as I’m able. I put a lot of time into practice: learning new songs, exploring different chord structures, positions, and progressions, and learning to sing the songs as well — all of which I genuinely enjoy. I’m fortunate to have the time to practise and improve, but I’m also very aware that there are people who picked up a guitar just a year or two ago and are already far better players than I am.

One of the greatest gifts Loftys Bar has given me is the opportunity to experience so many musicians — young and old, seasoned and new. It’s been an incredible few years listening to and learning from experienced players, and hopefully, in some small way, helping to encourage and nurture new talent too.

There are many factors involved in becoming good at anything, and music is no different. A huge number of young people dream of becoming professional footballers, rugby players, boxers, race car drivers — and more recently, thanks in part to Luke Littler, professional darts players — yet only a very small percentage ever succeed. Determination and dreaming alone aren’t enough; raw ability, hard work, dedication, training, practice, and a good deal of luck all play their part.

Happily, music is different in one important way. While it shares some similarities, almost anyone can be a rock star — maybe not famous, maybe not Elvis, Adele, or Ed Sheeran — but with a little effort, almost anyone can play a tune.

Its never too late to start, to pick up an instrument and have a musical opinion of your own…..