Little drummer girl

Dear Mai Mai, China and Tingting,

Hi. My name is Joyce and I’m a high school junior. I want to learn to play the drums, but my brothers and male friends are discouraging me, telling me that playing the drums is more fit for a man. Some of my friends are putting together a band and they want me to play keyboards. What should I do? — Joyce

I think that you should go on and learn to play the drums. It is not "...more fit for a man." It is just that it is more common for us to see a man playing them. Isn’t it grand to be doing something that is unusual? I don’t think you should be discouraged about doing something you really want. The drummer for the Corrs is a woman, right? Doesn’t she look great up there? Go for it. — Mai Mai

In my experience, it is easier to learn something that is of interest to you rather than one that you feel half-hearted about. In your case, this is drums and keyboards. You want to play the drums but you are discouraged from doing so. Instead, you are thinking of playing the keyboards, which others feel is more appropriate. I think you shouldn’t succumb to the pressure. If I were you, I’d go for learning to play the drums. — China

As I always tell my daughters, follow what is in your heart. You shouldn’t be influenced to play another instrument if your heart is set on playing the drums. I don’t believe in "...more fit for a man," especially not in playing the drums. Our women pioneers might frown upon us if we allow ourselves to be boxed-in in this kind of thinking. Dare to defy the odds if you really believe in your cause. — Tingting