The Impact of the Pandemic on My Musical Journey as a Guitarist

The global pandemic has brought about significant changes in many aspects of our lives, and for me, it has not only affected my daily routine but also my pursuit as a guitarist. This article delves into how the pandemic has influenced my playing and what steps I took to maintain and enhance my skills during these challenging times.

Revitalizing My Playing

Before the pandemic, I was part of a band where we frequently rehearsed and played gigs. However, once the lockdown restrictions were put in place, my playing became sporadic, and my enthusiasm waned. This lack of activity led to a decline in both my playing skills and physical calluses. Recognizing the need for a change, I decided to learn songs by Rush, one of my favorite bands, and specifically the legendary guitarist, Alex Lifeson.

The lockdown offered an endless opportunity to immerse myself in Rush's music, particularly the iconic Moving Pictures album. I dedicated myself to learning songs such as Tom Sawyer, YYZ, Red Barchetta, and Limelight. This experience reignited my passion for playing, and I even shared my progress on YouTube with my fellow enthusiasts.

Finding a New Writing Partner

Another significant change brought about by the pandemic was the opportunity to form a new non-professional band. Prior to the virus sweeping through the UK, I had been looking for a writing and performing partner, as I found myself struggling to write songs independently. The lack of availability of professional bassists and drummers proved to be a persistent challenge. However, during the pandemic, a serendipitous encounter with a local shop worker led to the discovery of a talented bassist who had previously played in several bands and also wrote songs.

This discovery was a game-changer. We hit it off instantly, with him being an exceptionally skilled bass player and rhythm guitarist. Over the summer, we managed to compose and record about five or six songs together in my home studio. Despite setbacks like work commitments and life's unpredictability, we pulled through and even managed to record one song using a drum machine due to the unavailability of my regular drummer friends. By the end of 2019, we had a rough mix of one song, which sounded great and was a testament to our collaborative efforts.

Adjusting to the New Reality

The lockdown and social distancing measures put a halt to many activities, including our band's progress. However, we adapted by playing acoustic guitars in our gardens, creating impromptu outdoor concerts that were enjoyed by our neighbors. As the weather improved, we focused on arranging and writing new songs, often hosting friends for impromptu jam sessions, which kept our spirits high. While the pandemic has slowed our progress, it has also fostered a sense of community and support among those involved.

My journey as a guitarist has been profoundly impacted by the pandemic, but it has also presented unique opportunities. While we face ongoing challenges, I remain optimistic about the future of our project, believing that our growing experience and the lessons we have learned will make our eventual collaboration a success.

Reflections and Thanks

This pandemic has taught me resilience and adaptability, two qualities that have significantly enhanced my skills and my passion for music. I encourage all musicians out there, whether professional or amateur, to find ways to maintain their craft during challenging times. I would love to hear your thoughts on how the pandemic has affected your musical journey or any advice you might have for fellow musicians.

Thank you for reading and for supporting my journey as a guitarist.