This is a good time to address a malady I've suffered known as G.A.S, or gear acquistition syndrome. The best example of this (as with many things music-related) comes from Spinal Tap. Nigel Tufnel's room full of guitars is a perfect example of G.A.S gone unchecked. I've never collected to that extent, I've certainly been guilty of not enjoying what I have and wanting some prestigious brand name. I've also been very guilty of buying a piece of musical equipment thinking it will unlock the hidden musician within. I know now that this is crap. Practice is the only thing that will free your musicality. On other problem is I would use the lack of flashy gear as an excuse for not putting in the practice I needed. I can't practice until I get a
However, you still need decent instruments. Nothing is more miserable than playing a non-responsive piece of crap. The combination of bad sound and horrible action has probably done in many a musical aspiration.
This conflict within (using and enjoying what I have vs. getting something new to try something else) has really come to a head for me. I've really wanted to give music composition a more serious go. I would also like to use my computer for recording. So, I looked at what I have and what I need and came up with some additional equipment needs. It was almost painful deciding to make the purchase. I had to debate myself constantly. Was I doing this just to get another "gadget" or because it was something I required to get the tunes created?
I honestly think I'm just getting what is required to get the job done, but time will tell. Hopefully, I'm not full of G.A.S.
