I find myself always chasing new tunes and never quite finishing the ones I already know. Do you set a rule - master X tunes before adding more? Or just go where it's fun? Curious how other fiddlers approach this.
I’ve been in that exact same loop What’s helped me is keeping a small rotation—like 2–3 tunes I’m actively polishing while allowing myself to learn a new one every now and then as a ‘reward.’ The older tunes get regular attention (tone, timing, variation), so they don’t get abandoned, but I still keep things fresh with something new. Also, revisiting old tunes after a break often makes them click in a way they didn’t before. For me, it’s less about strict rules and more about staying engaged without letting things pile up unfinished. run 3
Wait, there are only four tunes, and two of them are Forked Deer.
quote:
Originally posted by farmerjonesWait, there are only four tunes, and two of them are Forked Deer.
First laugh of the day, Farmer! Thanks.
I'm sure I've said this more than twice here but I took weekly lessons with David Bragger for several years. Each week he'd teach me one or two new tunes, and I got to say that the regimen truly helped my brain and fingers find their form. The regimen truly helped develop my chops 'n savvy. Yeah, I've still got many more miles to go on this journey, but with OT at least, I'm now fluent enough on the instrument to sit in at a jam and confidently join in.
Depends on the reason for learning tunes.
If content with playing at home by oneself then unfinished tunes may be acceptable.
But if preparing tunes for a gig or to be presented at the next jam session;
that may motivate one to complete the tunes.
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