“Concerts need contrast – and lots of it.” -The Musician’s Way, p. 210 In previous articles, I’ve explored avenues to design concert programs that can attract diverse audiences. In this post, I offer tips to construct attractive programs primarily using...
“Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that’s creativity.” -Charles Mingus, bassist The Musician’s Way, p. 55 Musical problem-solving requires creative thinking, yet the style of thinking that’s commonly...
“Create meaning in everything that you practice.” -The Musician’s Way, p. 312 Have you ever started a music practice session and felt that your abilities were out of alignment? Maybe your mind was restless, your control tenuous, or your tone iffy. It’s easy for...
“The path you take is your path and no one else’s, so welcome it.” -The Musician’s Way, p. 314 Many aspiring musicians worry about their futures, wondering whether they have enough talent to succeed as pros. Thing is, musical talent is but a facet of what enables us...
“Whatever music you play or sing, your objective is to express musical ideas, not spew out notes.” -The Musician’s Way, p. 24 Accomplished musicians bring vibrancy to every sound they make – there’s an emotional power to their music that...
“Leaving your troubles behind, enter the exquisite realm of music making.” -The Musician’s Way, p. 6 The beginnings of practice sessions set in motion everything that follows. When we start practice with clear intentions, we accomplish more in the shortest...