The Mind of a Musician

Those of you who are close to a musician, classical in particular, will know that they are their biggest critic.
For many years Robin never came off stage pleased with his performance.
Even when the audience had obviously loved the concert, and the reviews were excellent, there was always something that he was unhappy about.

I frequently toured with the Hill/Wiltschinsky Guitar Duo, and spent many hours reassuring both players, that their concert had gone very well.
But this is a common situation.
Questioning ones ability is a normal part of the musical process. It's what drives musicians on and encourages their musical development.

However, over the years, I have noticed that occasionally, just occasionally, Robin will say a concert went well.

So last night I was very pleased to receive an email form Robin, after the first of his concerts on board the QM2, informing me that he was delighted with his performance.
Many factors had fallen into place.
The sound was good, the lighting good, his nails remained intact, tuning wasn't a problem, the audience plentiful, and also very appreciative.
As he stood to take his final bow, he saw a number of people standing and applauding at the back of the theatre.
Then, some on the front row stood.
Before the clapping had died out, the entire theatre, 1000 people, were showing there appreciation.

This moves me immensely.
It also moves Robin.
When you invest so many years, and so many hours, every single day, in the instrument you love, then it is bound to affect you.
And finally, after more than 35 years of entertaining many thousands of people, all around the world, on land and on sea, in concert halls and through recordings, he can finally, occasionally, admit to himself, that he played well.