My mum is a legend—a shining beacon as I step into my forties. Picture this:

Mum hits the big 4-0. I'm a carefree 6-year-old, merrily making up songs in the bath (about accidentally getting seaweed in my pants! Don’t ask!) without a thought about learning an instrument.

Mum, however, always harboured a burning desire to play the piano.

Many might reach this milestone and think, "It's too late," especially with three young kids in tow and not a penny to spare. But NOT my mum! ❤️

Enter the cardboard piano. Yes, you read that right!

With a tutor book in hand, Mum began her musical journey on a flat piece of cardboard!!

She practiced every day, tickling the non-existent ivories with the fervour of a concert pianist. Her determination was palpable.

And then, the day came. The real upright piano, a tarnished school instrument no longer loved by the wider world but treasured by us, finally graced our home.

Mum’s dedication never wavered. She practiced daily, battling those pesky mind monkeys telling her she’d never improve.

But improve she did, becoming the church pianist at our local church! (Ha ha very Yoda there with my grammar!)

Fast forward a bit, and I’m 8, with a violin in hand. Mum, my steadfast supporter, sat with me at the piano every day, helping me practice.

Years later, inspired by her, I took up the piano too (shoutout to another amazing person, Melvyn, my piano teacher).

My piano skills have not only enabled me to accompany my own students but to compose music for the Stringosaurus Resources Hub used by kids all over the world! 🎻

And now, the legacy continues. My daughter Olive has started playing the piano, and both my girls are budding singers.

All this musical magic, starting from the humble piece of cardboard.

So, here’s to Mum—the epitome of grit, determination, and unwavering support. Her journey is not just a story; it’s inspirational. 🎶

40 is just the beginning, and I feel super excited to have reached this milestone. Does this story resonate in any way with you??

Warmest regards,

Laura

If you don’t want to be static, but want to bravely move forward like my mum, check out my brilliant early childhood violin teaching materials and our warm community of teachers…