Journal Entry #30–Violin Update and First Day of Autumn on the Way

On my journey to get better at the violin, I bought a book of easy, Disney-themed violin sheet music. The selection ranges from older classics like “Baby Mine” from Dumbo to more recent releases such as “Let It Go” from Frozen. Knowing the songs that I’m playing has also made a difference in learning how

Journal Entry #29–Some Good News and Chaotic News

First, to start with some good news, 101 Words has published my short story, “Two Perspectives!” It has been a huge honor, and their website has a whole archive of flash fictions that are fun to read and check out. Additionally, my violin playing has been coming along bit by bit. I’ve managed to play

A Craft Companion (A Poem)

By Joyce Jacobo [Author’s Note: Learning about the violin and all the artisanship that goes into constructing such an instrument has also served as a reminder of writing as a craft, and the way our crafts–in general–develop alongside us.] Another year has come and gone       with the two of us in company—                                     My

Chloe Violin (A Poem)

By Joyce Jacobo [Author’s Note: Based on my recent experiences with the violin, which I’ve finally managed to get tuned just right and restrung with new, better-quality strings. So, now it feels like I’m able to really start learning to play various pieces and reading the sheet music for it. It probably sounds weird, but

Journal Entry #28 – Learning the Violin: Day Two

Well, it’s Day Two of having a violin, and I’ve made some great strides in learning the notes on the finger board and a great deal about the instrument, in general. I’ve also snapped several strings, since the ones that came with the violin were kind of flimsy and apparently not installed properly for me

Journal Entry #27–Adventures in Playing the Violin

UPS delivered my full-size (or 4/4) violin the other afternoon. It came in a comfy case, alongside a hydrometer (to measure the humidity), rosin (to lubricate the bow string), and extra strings. After getting over the initial wonder at the smooth texture of its body and lightness, other little details became apparent. For instance, I

Journal Entry #26–I’m Getting a Violin!

I happened to come across a reasonably priced violin on Amazon recently. Having always admired the sweet songs that violins can create, and curious about trying out a stringed instrument, I placed an order for it. Then my family members learned about this move, and started rushing out to order things like beginning violin books