Practicing Blues

In our modern-day world of instant messaging, fast food and high-speed internet, we are beginning to lose an appreciation for things which take time, work and determination. A talent or ability is like a seed which can be planted and cultivated. Depending on the individual who plants it, the seed may seem to take more or less time to start growing. But one thing is certain: anyone can plant the seed, and anyone can see it grow if they are willing to work at it.

Every good musician I have ever met has at some time or another come up against feelings of wanting to give up. What did they do when they reached this crossroads? With a little bit of determination, and with some help and support from parents and music teachers, they were able to roll up their sleeves and stick with it. Soon enough they were able to see the fruits of the seed they planted, and that was enough to motivate them for the rest of their life.If you or your child has experienced these similar feelings of losing motivation, know first of all that this is normal. Second, know that creating a system of rewards for yourself or your child is the best way to keep a person on the path to their goals. Small incentives for daily practicing and larger rewards for passing off songs or playing in recitals will help lead a music student along until they reach that satisfying point of hearing themselves play something fun and fantastic on their instrument.

So what am I really saying? Keep practicing daily. Keep being excited about music. Make goals small and large and have a reward system at home for reaching those goals. Parents and families, keep helping to motivate your music students, and in no time, all the minutes spent practicing will pay off.

-Mark Campbell, M.M.