Improvement

Duke Ellington’s statement, “A problem is a chance for you to do your best,” suggests that challenges and obstacles should be viewed as opportunities for growth and excellence. Essentially, when faced with difficulties, individuals have the chance to showcase their skills, resilience, and creativity.

An experience I have vividly reinforces Ellington’s thinking, and I wholeheartedly agree with his point of view. Trying to play a song with my friend, He presented me with a unique challenge: to solo in a blues piece. Despite my passion for music and the guitar, I had little familiarity with the intricate blues music theory. Initially, I saw this as a problem, a hurdle I needed to overcome. However, instead of shying away from the challenge, I embraced it as an opportunity to learn and showcase my musical abilities.

I dedicated myself to understanding the principles of blues music theory, seeking guidance from my music teacher as well, and practicing every day along with online guitar programs. I sought out songs that I enjoy to make the learning process more fun and less of an assignment. Practicing songs such as Stormy Monday, by The Allman Brothers Band,  The Thrill is Gone, by B.B. King, and other various blues works.

Embracing the challenge not only deepened my understanding of blues music but also honed my problem-solving skills. I found myself experimenting with different scales, chord progressions, and techniques to infuse my style into the blues solo. As I navigated through musical uncertainties, each mistake became a stepping stone toward improvement. As a result, the challenge didn’t just push me to learn the theoretical aspects of blues but also helped me develop a creative spirit that continues to shape my approach to music.

As I delved into the unfamiliar territory, I discovered a new realm of musical expression. Despite my discomfort, the problem pushed me to grow personally. When it came time to dive into the blues solo without the glitz of a performance, it wasn’t about the stage lights or applause. The real win was in mastering the music. I poured all that new knowledge and passion into the solo, and the recognition I got wasn’t just for hitting the right notes—it was about acknowledging the grind to conquer that initial challenge. The real reward was in the process of learning itself, proving that sometimes the journey is the prize.

“electric guitars” by fictures is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

“Tim Beavers lead guitar & vocalist for PBR (People’s Blues of Richmond) #rva” by Sky Noir is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0.