Jeremey wrote:

>I've noticed something over the past couple of years.  My mom noticed
>it too.  When people discover that you can play a musical instrument
>(especially if you play well), they think you are bright and gifted.

I am sure that many people think this, and many others wish it were true.

Personally, I think that engaging my mind in playing the piano at least
keeps my aging mind working quicker.  The mental acuity needed to sight
read notes, remember which ones are sharped, flatted of naturaled, plan
fingering ahead as you play is invaluable in keeping up mental abilities.

However, every day when I come home from work, I think about just how
terribly intelligent I am.  This is because I mostly work with idiots.
I can recommend this ONLY for self esteem - otherwise it is just deadly.

Joel Hill
Tallahassee, FL - USA
ALKAN Web Page: http://www.nettally.com/joelhill/alkan/ Updated May 2000