Denise's retirement story

When I first started thinking about what I might want to do in retirement, I decided that I’d like to play a musical instrument. After considering my options, I knew I wanted to play in the local community orchestra. 

With 5 years to go until retirement, I began viola lessons. Given the advanced ages of most viola players and their scarcity, I hoped that a new viola player might be welcomed in the future. My goal was to reach a suitable standard by the time I retired. Through dedication and hard work, 2 weeks before my retirement date my teacher told me I was ready for the orchestra. Five years later and I’ve performed in 32 concerts, including 2 on tour in China.

“I am constantly inspired by my playing companion, a retired physician in his 80s.”

After joining the orchestra I took on the role of treasurer, so I now have the added joy of playing with numbers on spreadsheets. Helping with the administrative side of the orchestra has given me a new perspective on the behind-the-scenes organisation and logistics into making a public performance possible. I’m constantly inspired by my playing companion—a retired physician in his 80s.

Despite having played for most of his life, he still takes regular lessons and strives to be a better musician. While I may never achieve his level of skill, I can try. I highly recommend this type of new activity, especially if you have the opportunity to join a local orchestra or band. The orchestras I’ve played with have been wonderful communities of like-minded people varying in age from pre-teen to their 90s.

Every lesson, rehearsal and concert brings a new challenge to keep my brain active. Although I played piano and saxophone in my youth and already knew how to read music before learning the viola, learning to read music is all about repetition. I believe it’s achievable to learn from scratch, even if you’re approaching your ‘3rd Act’.

The viola uses the alto clef, which is different to the more commonly used treble or bass clef, so it felt a bit like starting from scratch, well for me anyway. My only advice is to be prepared to commit to regular practice for as long as you play (with time off for holidays, of course).

And prepare to sound pretty awful at first—it’s part of the journey. Looking back, I realise how important it was to have a clear vision of what I wanted to achieve before retiring. Retirement isn’t just an end; its an opportunity to begin something new. Having a plan in place helped me transition with purpose. I recommend reflecting on what you truly want and taking steps towards it before the big day arrives.

Denise