Goodbye to the Accordion

 

My Letter to Members of the Silver Notes, An Accordion Ensemble

June 26, 2010

 

Hi Janet, Char, Sharon, and Barb,

 

Accordion playing with the Silver Note was fun last night, but I was struck with the realization that I can no longer play with the group in public. My fingers are too stiff, rigid, inflexible and slow. I am unable to play chords with my right hand. I am unable to push the buttons with my left hand. I just can't keep up the speed of some of the songs. I need to "give it up" with the group and play my electronic, reedless accordion on my own at home. I just hate admitting this, and it's even more difficult to accept it.

 

It's ironic because my overall movement was so good yesterday with dance, yoga and my voice and speech sounding/feeling almost normal for most of the day. It's that unpredictability of Parkinson's that's so difficult to manage.

 

So I want to be involved with the Silver Notes, just not playing the accordion, but on the sidelines as a member of the support team.

 

Thanks for your understanding,

 

Kate

Comments

[terri reinhart]

Hi Kate, I'm sorry to hear that you are giving up playing with the group. Those are the hardest things for me, too, letting go of an ability is one thing, letting go of a community is another. I hope you can find a way to stay involved. Hope you are well!! terri