My only resolution for 2023 is to play the guitar more. This has been on my yearly to-do list for a decade, but I have consistently failed.
When I was 10, I decided to learn how to play an acoustic guitar in secondary school. I can’t remember what the motivations behind this were. Still, most likely, it was a mixture of Taylor Swift, Avril Lavigne and Miley Cyrus.
Until I had my own, I borrowed a rusty guitar from school, taking it home in a massive black bag. My mum eventually bought me one from Asda for £25 — I think she believed I would give up after a few lessons, which is understandable. But I was so happy that I still remember the exact date it was purchased. Although one could argue I ruined it by covering it in love heart stickers, it is still my greatest possession.
I ended up having lessons for four years. I learnt a range of songs from Wonderwall — the obvious — to Stairway to Heaven — a masterpiece.
Despite my quiet confidence, I could not play in front of anyone. My guitar teacher was the only person I had the guts to play with. As soon as I performed in front of a group of more than two people, my hands would shake and sweat, my fingers would slip, and I would always play the wrong notes.
It really is a shame looking back.
So, as the years went by, I found myself picking up the guitar less and less, and eventually, it ended up at the back of my wardrobe. I felt guilty but always thought, “one day, I’ll start again”.
On New Year’s Eve, I went into a music shop and fell in love with one of the guitars. For 45 minutes, my friend and I sat in a stuffy little room at the back of the shop. I played and antagonised myself about forgetting chords and not playing enough. Finally, on this day, I decided things were going to change.
So, in January, I got my £25 guitar restrung and got many funny looks over the bring pink stickers. But since I’ve been practising until my fingertips hurt.
I’ve learned the Game of Thrones theme song, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, and relearned Hedwig’s theme. You won’t catch me playing Wonderwall at the next house party, that’s for sure.
The aim for this year is to become the next Jimi Hendrix. So here’s to holding myself accountable!🥂