Having both Martial Arts and music as pursuits?

[JazzKicker]

Musashi said, you could not chase two rabbits. But he also said, "pen and sword, in accord".

have both been a martial artist and played a couple of musical instruments all my life. It dawned on me, aside from my oldest friend, that I have never come across another person who shared both pursuits, as if they are separate, incompatible worlds. Somehow, I was able to juggle both (besides a career, etc.) though I participated and achieved more as a black belt. Ironically, in retired life I find I'm more active with physical training, while my old friend keeps busy with music and wants nothing to do with punching and kicking!

 

[sensei8]

To each their own.

I’ve been in the MA for over 6 decades, ran a  dojo/MA Supply Store, play 3 musical instruments, play a mean chess game, carry a high bowling average, have a nasty game of 3-cushion billiards, go to the gym, ride a bicycle, and most importantly, take care of my wife and kids…but not all at the same time, of course. 

Neither were difficult to enjoy whenever I was doing whichever one.

I don’t know much about chasing rabbits and all like that, but Musashi, as great as he was, was then and we’re now.

 

[Montana]

I've been in the arts since January 1975. I  used to play the trombone from 5th grade well into my 50's, but gave it up. I've also been a singer (2nd bass) since forever! My mother was a jr high school music teacher.