“Every performance is different. That’s the beauty of it.” -Van Morrison The Musician’s Way, p. 153 To reach the heart of performance, let’s start by deciphering what a performance is. Consider this: When we play or sing for someone else, we’re performing; and...
“The performers who connect from the stage establish emotional relationships with their audiences.” -The Musician’s Way, p. 188 What endows a performance with the power to stir listeners’ hearts? At a minimum, a spellbinding concert melds first-rate...
“When I play, I make love – it is the same thing.” -Arthur Rubinstein, pianist The Musician’s Way, p. 207 If you’ve read much about performing, then you’ve probably run into the terms “peak performance,” “flow,” and “being in the zone.” Those synonymous...
“When we generate positive emotions, we ignite creativity.” The February 2014 issue of The Musician’s Way Newsletter coalesces more than 20 resources for performers, educators, and arts administrators. You’ll find articles about boosting creativity, enhancing...
“Audiences want to hear music, not monologues.” –The Musician’s Way, p. 177 One of the most effective ways for us to connect with audiences is to speak engagingly yet briefly about the music we perform. Problem is, lots of musicians neglect to prepare the...
“If there’s a central tenet of showmanship, it’s this: Project; don’t reflect.” –The Musician’s Way, p. 179 Showmanship – or show-womanship – doesn’t equate with flamboyance; it comes from being who you are, but more so....
“The musicians who carry on creating take active roles in caring for themselves.” -The Musician’s Way, p. 229 The December 2013 issue of The Musician’s Way Newsletter has now arrived in subscribers’ inboxes. This issue features more than 20 links to articles and...
“Your music teachers should have high expectations for you, and you for them.” –The Musician’s Way, p. 295 Few things have greater impacts on our musical development than our choices of teachers. How can aspiring performers single out teachers who can not...
“If your concept of success is restricted to being an international soloist or performing with a major symphony or opera company, then you’re probably headed for difficulties in life.” -The Musician’s Way, p. 300 There are ample rewarding...