“A musician’s reputation is shaped as much by consistent professionalism (or the lack thereof) as it is by artistry.” –The Musician’s Way, p. 115 Although we musicians spend vast amounts of time practicing alone, professional music-making is largely a collaborative...
“Practicing well is virtually an art in itself – the art of achieving economy of time and means.” –David Soyer, cellist The Musician’s Way, p. 20 When we practice well, we don’t just get great results; we also reach our goals with optimal efficiency. We work...
“What we play is life.” –Louis Armstrong, trumpeter and composer Would many musicians dispute Louis Armstrong’s words? I doubt it. With each turn of a phrase, we performers spin out some of the essence of being alive, and we relish every moment. But we don’t create...
“Of all my skills, none is more important than the ability to organize my time.” –Twyla Tharp, choreographer The Creative Habit, p. 178 Whether you’re a mature musician or a rising one, your creative output will hinge on your knack for allocating practice time and...
“In order to be creative you have to know how to prepare to be creative.” -Twyla Tharp, choreographer (The Creative Habit, p. 9) Even though musical expertise results from persistent practice, it can be tough for us musicians to stick to our practice schedules...
