If I could sum up this year's practice theme on a post it note for myself, it would read: "get good at playing on the beat, stupid". I'd probably leave off the stupid, but you get the point- everybody could learn to be better at being on the beat. Here's what I'm doing to build my chops:
Read MoreI create a playlist of all the songs in Spotify, and listen to it on repeat while I do housework or other menial jobs.
Read MoreLong practices are particularly hard on time-strapped musicians during Christmas. Use these simple steps to keep practices focused and on schedule:
Read MoreSo you say you want to improve your practicing? Here’s what I do to up my practice technique, and get great results quickly:
Read MoreMusicians often spend hours practicing completely wrong. We practice as if we're fusion jazz session players, when our paid gigs are rocking out simple pop songs live. Here's how to bring your practicing into alignment:
Read MoreI received this message from a friend this week:
Do you have any suggestions on what I can do to become better at improvising with fancy scales and runs? Thanks!
Read MoreYou’ve committed to start practicing more for worship on weekends, but you’re still not seeing the results you’d like from your pre-worship prep. Here are 7 ways to give your worship prep a shot in the arm:
Read MoreIt happens to every musician- the band leader for that new gig you’re trying to land hands you a massively complicated sheet music arrangement and says “here, just play this”. As you turn through the pages black with syncopated rhythms and 64th note glissandos, you hear the band leader say “5/8 meter at 150 bpm on my count. Ready? 1, 2, 3. . . “
Read MoreAs a music director at a small church, I’ve realized just how many ways you can fail when running a practice. Here are the 5 most common mistakes I’ve made in practicing, and how to correct it before it’s too late:
Read MoreSight-reading is still a vital part of being a great musician. Here’s 12 ways to get better at it:
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