- Joined
- Jul 29, 2017
- Messages
- 3,933
- Reason
- PALS
- Diagnosis
- 07/2017
- Country
- US
- State
- OR
- City
- Southern Oregon
I’m sure many of you are familiar with the “Ode to Joy” from Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. The full symphony is nearly an hour long and is arguably the greatest symphonic work ever written.
I have been playing principal bassoon in a semi-professional orchestra for a number of years. Our orchestra celebrated its 50th anniversary this season, and we just finished the season this weekend with three spectacular performances of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony.
I am fortunate in that my ALS has been leg-onset with slow progression. This has allowed me to keep playing my instrument a little longer than I might have otherwise.
Unfortunately, my hand function and mouth muscles are becoming affected, so my bassoon playing will sadly be coming to an end sooner than I’d like.
My goal was to get through as much of this symphony season as I could. After my diagnosis last summer, I discussed the situation with the conductor and executive director, both of whom were very supportive and encouraging. We agreed to hire an assistant for me, and having him play some of my parts has allowed me to conserve energy.
I did not expect to make it playing through the entire season, but I just did! Beethoven’s Ode to Joy was my Ode to Joy. Getting lots of rest, not taxing my hands prior to the performances, using lighter reeds, and using the assistant was the key. I’m happy to say the performances were a resounding success, and I had a blast. Just wanted to share.
I have been playing principal bassoon in a semi-professional orchestra for a number of years. Our orchestra celebrated its 50th anniversary this season, and we just finished the season this weekend with three spectacular performances of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony.
I am fortunate in that my ALS has been leg-onset with slow progression. This has allowed me to keep playing my instrument a little longer than I might have otherwise.
Unfortunately, my hand function and mouth muscles are becoming affected, so my bassoon playing will sadly be coming to an end sooner than I’d like.
My goal was to get through as much of this symphony season as I could. After my diagnosis last summer, I discussed the situation with the conductor and executive director, both of whom were very supportive and encouraging. We agreed to hire an assistant for me, and having him play some of my parts has allowed me to conserve energy.
I did not expect to make it playing through the entire season, but I just did! Beethoven’s Ode to Joy was my Ode to Joy. Getting lots of rest, not taxing my hands prior to the performances, using lighter reeds, and using the assistant was the key. I’m happy to say the performances were a resounding success, and I had a blast. Just wanted to share.
