Shakira Hussein, a passionate violinist, faced a profound life change when multiple sclerosis (MS) began to erode her ability to play. Instead of succumbing to despair, she transformed her musical journey, embracing new challenges and rekindling her connection with music through the tabla, a traditional South Asian percussion instrument. Her story highlights the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The Initial Struggles
For Hussein, the onset of multiple sclerosis was gradual and insidious. Initially, she dismissed her declining violin skills as a temporary setback, attributing her increasing fatigue and unexplained falls to everyday stressors. It wasn’t until she struggled with basic tasks like walking and writing that she considered the possibility of a neurological issue.
Her diagnosis of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis came as a shock yet brought a strange sense of relief; it meant she wasn’t facing a terminal illness. As she navigated treatment options, including disease-modifying therapies, she hoped to regain some semblance of her previous life, including her beloved music.
A Shifting Landscape
Despite a period of remission that allowed her to resume some activities, Hussein faced permanent changes to her motor skills and balance. The violin, which had been a constant in her life since childhood, became difficult to play. The vibrant jam sessions with family and friends faded into memory, replaced by a sense of longing for what once was.
As a single mother, she had busked outside local shops, sharing melodies while her daughter twirled in delight. The dream of playing the Bach double violin concerto with her daughter, a bond she had cherished, now seemed out of reach. The struggle to accept her new reality weighed heavily on her.
Embracing New Opportunities
With determination, Hussein set out to redefine her musical aspirations. She began by passing her violin to her daughter, holding onto the hope that one day, she might reclaim her ability to play. During rehabilitation, an occupational therapist encouraged her to explore new avenues. While alternatives like a tricycle or guitar were suggested, Hussein found herself drawn to the tabla, an instrument that offered a different path to creativity.
Hussein’s fascination with tabla stemmed from childhood memories of performances and her own experiences with South Asian music. The tabla, with its forgiving nature for those struggling with dexterity, became a practical choice. After acquiring a pair of drums, she embarked on lessons, immersing herself in the rhythms and techniques.
A New Musical Journey
Over the past eighteen months, Hussein has dedicated herself to mastering the tabla. She learns the unique finger positions, recites the bols (notes), and plays simple compositions. This new venture has reignited her passion for music, allowing her to express herself in ways her violin could no longer facilitate.
While she acknowledges that she may never perform the Bach double with her daughter, she is discovering the beauty of creating music together using different instruments. The combination of violin and tabla offers a fresh sound, one that embodies their evolving relationship.
Why it Matters
Hussein’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience inherent in the human spirit. Music, often viewed as a singular form of expression, can transcend boundaries and adapt to our changing circumstances. Her ability to pivot from violin to tabla illustrates that creativity can flourish even in the face of life-altering challenges. This story not only resonates with those living with disabilities but also inspires anyone facing obstacles to explore new paths and embrace change. In the end, music remains a universal language, capable of uniting us in unexpected ways.
