# 17 – Learn an Instrument

I thought this was a great challenge and apologise as I have forgotten who set it. There are few times in life (well as an adult anyway) where you feel able to make time to learn something new and challenge oneself. So what instrument did I choose? The ruler of course! A handy instrument that can be played wherever there is a table and can be bought for a mere 25p! I opted for the 30cm ruler. 15cm rulers have a limiting range and metre sticks, whilst providing a good bass tone, are challenging to play! My instructor was the world famous ruler player – Dan Wieden. His book ‘Guide to Ruler Playing’ has grounded me in the basics of successful ruler playing. Below are a few extracts from his book:

‘Using your weaker hand (whilst your other hand is holding) you are free to begin fingering…but how you choose to finger is entirely up to you. Have a little play around and see what you feel comfortable with.’

‘...a metal ruler is great for solos in a plastic ruler band.’

‘…and remember the only limits of the ruler are the measurements of your imagination.’

Take a listen to one my performances - ‘Puff the Magic Dragon’ which I chose because let’s be honest, whoever came up with playing the ruler must having been puffing the magic dragon! If you enjoy this let me know and I might just do a little Christmas number as a follow up!