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We had a Practice Design workshop with our Thrive members last week about articulating summer practice goals, being more effective in the practice room, how "results" are overrated… and how the illusion of time plays into consistency. 
 
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Everyone took their first attempt at making a practice design plan of their own in the 90-minute class. If you missed the Practice Design Worksheet, you can still download it! If you want individualized help, sign up here! 
 
Here are 5 takeaways from the workshop: 
  1. Learn to break down larger goals. If the goal is to get better at technique, ask yourself: what are 3 smaller skills that make technique great? Perhaps they're air consistency, hand position and releasing finger tension. Once you've got those skills, think about exercises that will address them SPECIFICALLY and INTENTIONALLY! Don't just do a bunch of articulation etudes… get more specific!
     
  2. Illusion of time  If you were to practice 4 days a week all summer, that's 48 total sessions if you practice once a day. Now - you can get a lot done in that time, but you're probably thinking it's possible to learn 4 concertos, 3 new etude books, revamp your bow hold and do 40 other things because there's “so much time.” Not so fast - how are you going to divide your time in those 48 sessions?
     
  3. The result is not your concern every day  Pre-meditating how you'll measure and analyze if your plan is working is crucial. Maybe you'll record the same articulation etude every 2 weeks while you're doing detailed work on skills that will improve your articulation. However, the result can not be your concern each day. You have to obsess over the plan, trust the process and be consistent. And, keep track of what you're doing! Here's a spreadsheet you can use.
     
  4. Sustainability  In the end, the plan you make means nothing if it isn't sustainable. But - on the other side of that coin, you've got to realize that doing 60 or 70% of what you've set out to do is a HUGE success. Don't give up when you miss one day. Make your #1 concern getting back on the wagon and don't get into the all or nothing mindset of “I missed one day so I have to give up.”
     
  5. Take a REAL break  This summer, when you want to take a break, allow your mind to TRULY be in break mode. Don't let the “I should be practicing" cloud follow you. Just commit to some time off and be free! Then you'll be able to come back rested and refreshed - instead of feeling guilty.
 
NOW SOME CLARINET! 
 
Some of you have told us you're practicing a lot of Mendelssohn Scherzo right now. Good for you! So often people think this excerpt is all about speed. But really… you know what it's about? Phrase. Lightness. Ease. Not playing too short. And an attitude of gratitude! (Okay the last one isn't scientifically backed but, swear it helps.) 
 
Here's a post with some advice and here's a download “Mendelssohn Scherzo Quick Wins” for some more advice about this excerpt!
 
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Next month around here we're talking about your potential as a 21C performer including: 
  • 21c performance skills
  • cultivating freedom through understanding style
  • how to identify mentors and sponsors
  • how to create a successful portfolio career
We're starting THIS FRIDAY, June 3 @ 1pm ET by having a conversation (free with registration) with multi-Grammy Award-winning cellist Nick Photinos, one of the most innovative and multifaceted cellists of our time. Formerly the cellist of Eighth Blackbird and now lecturer at Longy & Northwestern, Nick is an incredible example of a 21st century musician. In this conversation we'll talk about his path from a rising talent in the SF Bay Area, to forming the Eighth Blackbird Ensemble, and his choice to leave and forge a solo path. Plus we'll talk about the skills he says are a "must" in making a life in music, all the things he DIDN’T learn in school but did learn by doing (sound familiar, folks!?!). 
 
Later in the month, we will also host clarinet guest Chen Halevi - Tiffany's former teacher when she studied in Germany. He's an unbelievable clarinetist, and a teacher like no other. We'll be having a conversation with him that's open to you for free. So, head on over and see what's happening in June!
 
 
CHECK OUT THIS SCHOLARSHIP 
 
One last message. Our friends over at D'Addario have set up a scholarship in the memory of Kevin Garren to help students continue their education in subjects to which he dedicated his life. This scholarship helps college level Juniors, Seniors, or graduate students receive up to $2,000 towards continued education in woodwind performance, music business, or engineering/industrial design.
 
 
We hope to see you soon. Human connection is where it's at. Even on Zoom. 
 
Cheering for you, 
 
Tiffany & Ixi
 

EXPLORE MORE
 
Starts with a convo about forging your own path with multi-Grammy Award-winning cellist Nick Photinos, one of the most innovative and multifaceted cellists of our time. He's talking about career, forging your own path and more! It's free with registration.
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You gotta transpose!!!
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