The Late Starters Orchestra

If you have never played an instrument, or used to and have been away from it, wanting to go back, “The Late Starters Orchestra” is worth considering. The orchestra from this book’s title is the New York City version of a Late Starters Orchestra, just for that kind of person. The author of course is a member, in the cello section (it’s strings only). However, the book is not just about this music group but more a memoir of the author’s personal life, music and otherwise. The big goal in sight is to play the cello at his sixtieth birthday party. He was lucky to have had a great teacher, whose voice he remembers throughout the book, encouraging him when few others will. His wife, eleven years younger than him, must be very patient as it seems they clash in many ways; yet, they manage to work things out. And, in case the cello never worked out for him, he has his youngest son begin with the “Suzuki method,” the workings of which are big in this book. From there his son opens up to other kinds of music, and the two of them grow musically in their own ways.

One point I think I disagree with the author on is the place classical music holds among other arts. He believes that because it is meant for listening, it at the top of the pyramid. You could argue that music where the audience participates more actively is even greater. Or, paintings, for example, are meant for “listening” with your eyes. I am not a classical musician (I may be biased in favor of jazz); it seems like everyone has different feelings about classical music, and all genres for that matter. So, those who make an effort deserve credit, because the outcome can be wonderful. A different group we read about is the Really Terrible Orchestra – you can guess how they got their name. I don’t know how hard they try to make good music – if they try to sound bad, I don’t know if that’s a good thing. Anyway, I think it is great for Goldman to stick with it, and I think if anyone really wants to do something, they can make it happen, provided resources are available. Don’t limit yourself.

Note: I won a copy of this title through Goodreads' First Reads.