Taking Time Off from the Horn

As suggested by the pictorial piece last Friday of a horn case going into a closet, I am taking some time off from the horn. There is no medical reason involved, I am just doing this to take a little vacation.

Since my early professional years, taking a break from the horn has been more-or-less an annual tradition.

In the Arizona desert where I live and work today, the classical music work withers from the intense summer heat  – like everyone else really. The music does not return until well after the so-called monsoon season, and so the time is right to take a break.

Timing is everything

While taking a horn vacation may not be for everyone, for others it can be a welcome respite. When returning to the horn especially, the break can refresh and revitalize one’s spirit.

For myself, worry and guilt can creep into the picture. Questions like “what if I lose something and can’t get it back?” or “am I enjoying this too much?” can taint what is otherwise supposed to be a nice vacation.

Thinking about and planning out the break – even a little – helps a great deal with worry and guilt. Using my current situation as an example:

• My gigs start up again in mid-September.
• I want to be sure to be up to solid, professional standards by September 1st.
• I want to be back in my regular playing routine no later than 6 weeks beforehand,
• and so this gives me until mid-July for a vacation.

At this point I am not sure how long the vacation will actually be, but at least a cut-off date has been determined – one that gives me plenty of elbow room. As loose as this plan is, it is enough for me to keep guilt and worry at bay.

While timelines and requirements will vary from person-to-person, I would argue that everyone needs a break every now and then.

Being driven and being driven crazy are two phrases that are only one word apart.

What about you?

• What are your strategies for taking breaks?
• When do you take time off?
• Are you against taking time off the horn?