Before I got sick, I was learning to play the Irish fiddle. MG took that away from me, because fiddling requires upper arm strength and the use of the neck muscles. But YouTube has videos of old-time Appalachian fiddlers who hold the instrument all wrong: they hold it down in front of them, so they're not holding their arms up at all. And they don't tuck it under their chins. It's enough to make a violinist cringe, but in folk music, anything goes!

So, I am working on a version of the old-time fiddling style that doesn't stress my arm and neck muscles. I can play just as well as before. Which is to say, pretty terrible. But, this is a wonderful boost to my morale.

Abby

Abby if you find a 1/2 size bow you can play on your lap actually. Have seen it done.

Really!?! Wow. Thanks for letting me know. I am wondering how that works...will search YouTube. Sort of like a guitar? How cool is that!

Abby

Abby,

Don't ever let the MG take this away from you. Music is one of the most therapeutic things you can do for yourself. When practicing, try sitting sideways by the kitchen table with your left arm propped on the table. Your bow arm will be free. You won't be shifting into higher positions with fiddle music as most of it is in first position. If you want to try classical music research Baroque style - a lot of it authentically was played with the violin on your chest. Do a lot of listening when you're not up to playing.

I know where you're coming from and want you to keep trying. Play for your own enjoyment and don't worry about what anyone else thinks. MG is a crazy disease and it has it's ebbs and flows and just go along with it. Best of luck.

that is awesome!

Great news Abby! I need to consider something similar, I love making music...I was learning to play guitar and cello before I got MG...maybe I can try lap guitar...