United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Peggy
I am so happy to hear Emma is going to try!

Would-a, should-a, if only I had tried, I think those are the worst feelings in the world. It is better to try and fail then never to try. You never know what we can do... Love that OBPI spunk!
Kath

Well Peyton(7) had his first guitar lesson tonight. It went pretty well, he had a hard time keeping his thumb on the back of the bridge, I think that's what it is called and had a hard time keeping his fingers pressed on the strings. But it was great therapy!! I think if he works really hard and practices alot he will be able to do it.

I'm glad you asked that question. I started playing the tenor sax in the 5th grade and played it till I graduated from high school. I didn't have a lot of trouble with it,although it bothered my neck a little-- I don't think it was the ROPI, but just the weight. I found I could reach the keys just fine-- My right arm was long enough and I have pretty good finger dexterity. Can't supinate, have a bent elbow and droopy shoulder--but I could actuallly rest my bad arm on those keys . I also play the trumpet and baritone--they are a little harder. I was in marching band, pep band and won awards in contests all through school. I would definitely recommend this. Fot one thing-the keys are fairly far apart--so I didn't need the dexterity as I would with the clarinet. Also, because of the strap-- I didn't have to physically hold on--made it easier when my arm got tired . If you have any questions, I'd be happy to help you. Alto sax is smaller and a lot lighter. That might be the best way to go. I am so glad I did it. It gave me an accomplishment where my arm didn't get in the way or matter. and yes, I have neck problems now that I'm 51. But I also cart around a laptop and I hauled 2 kids on my neck---just my opinion.
Pat

Thanks for all of your input!

Pat, when Emma actually starts with the sax, I'll probably have some more questions for you. I'm so happy to hear that you were able to do it! It's so encouraging to know that it can be done with w ROBPI!!!

Peggy

Are there any guitar made for just one hand? My fiance has been wanting to play guitar for years, but his left hand is useless, and his arm bends up and down and thats all. So hold the strings his like completely out of the question....as there an other guitars that maybe lie flat and only require one hand? Just thought I would ask, i know it would tickle him to death if he was able to play something

Peggy,
Just let me know when she's ready. There are a few little tricks to give your BPI arm a rest when you're playing. I enjoyed being part of a group where my arm didn't get in the way--even though at the time, I wanted to play the flute--feminine you know. Still haven't figured out how to master that one. As for guitar, I don't have the arm endurance to hold the guitar--like the keyboard, holding my wrist up puts a lot of strain on my arm and it just gives out. With the sax, I could keep my wrist and arm in it's natural ( natural for Erb's) position and it didn't wear out. Hope that makes sense. Becuase when you put your fingers on the keys, your elbow is bent the wrist doesn't have to extend, it was a good fit. Hope it works for you.!! Pat