FordBel

I would also go with the harp. You have to have callouses on every finger, let alone know the pedals, etc.

I actually disagree with the first part. Decent musicians can keep a beat, yes, but when it comes to playing the drums, this is a whole different task entirely.

Hmmm, I haven't heard of a good resource for saint seans or I would give it to you. But this post seems pretty old--did you ever find one?

There is some great information in that theory for dummies book, and there are a lot of really great tutorials online. I would recommend using those first if you want an overview of what you already know, but if you can, I would also recommend getting a thick old theory workbook and just going for it!

Well it sounds like you're on the right track now. Good luck!

This is a really interesting cultural mix for sure. I would never think to put those two together!

Wow, going for a John Williams piece is an incredible feat! Good for you!