Much has been said about friends—many beautiful things, many apt phrases
rich with understanding. To me, a friend is one who understands me—and
loves me in spite of that fact.
One of my dearest friends is my piano, and I feel that every musician
must consider his instrument in this light just as I do.
When I am tired and discouraged, or when I am joyful and full of hopeful
expectation, it makes no difference what the mood, my piano responds to
my every touch. It sings with me when I would sing. In minor chord it
grieves to see me sad. It can be light and airy when I will; or if
thought runs madly on and on, lightly touching the heights of exaltation
or delving into mirey depths beneath—still I am not alone. And being not
alone, I stand.
I want you to learn to think of your instrument as a Friend, for I know
the endless joy that such a close communion is bound to give.
Would you have a friend? Then be one.
It applies with equal force as regards your instrument. You must
understand it just as thoroughly as you long to have it understand you.
That is where AUTOMATIC FINGER CONTROL should be a constant help to you.
It enables you to understand your instrument so much better.
The exercises take on a simpler mien, now. That is only possible,
however, because of the good work you have already done. Keep it up!
Starting Review. Practice Exercises 1, 22, 23, and 24.