I began playing the violin in 4th grade and continued through 8th grade. I had to stop because my mother no longer had the time to take me to rehearsals, and practicing at home after her long workdays became difficult. When I told my teacher I was quitting, she cried, which deeply affected me because I cared about her very much. She had been incredibly supportive—she even loaned me a full-size violin and allowed me to keep it.
Years later, now at 31, I decided to return to the violin and have been taking lessons for about a year. However, I feel that my progress has been very slow—I am just now reaching the final piece in Suzuki Book 1. When I compare myself to others, it seems like they are much further ahead, which can be discouraging.
At the same time, playing the violin heals my inner child. I sometimes wonder whether I should continue or let it go.
Is this progress too slow? Or is it normal? Help 😭