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I still often underestimate the athleticism required to play the violin. On that note, for a few months now, I've somehow switched back to the violin while my viola has been lying untouched in its case. It all started when Aliff printed out some Mazas violin duets for his students. I may be in my 30s, but my string playing, whether violin or viola, is still student-grade. The only things I might have over the typical school-age student are some maturity and aesthetic taste.

Recently, we were introduced to an authorised outlet where we can practise performing in public. Rather, the practise is for me—heaven knows my husband doesn't need any more low-end training on the violin. We've already covered every week of October and learned a few new things along the way.

Because these are not sit-down concerts where an audience is expected to focus their attention on the stage, it has been like a social experiment for us, particularly in debunking the myth that classical music isn't appealing anymore. We're accustomed to planned concerts, but receiving unsolicited appreciation from random passersby has been an honour. As well as that, it is a nice distraction from the unpleasant things going on in life. For one and a half hours, all our burdens are put aside because the amount of mental, physical, and spiritual concentration needed is so great. So far, we plan to continue performing at least once a week.

I often feel the need to describe the difference between playing the violin and the viola, but it's not easy to do so. I like them both now. One thing for sure is that my viola playing will improve if I improve on the violin, but it won't happen the other way around.