Why You Need a Practice Routine!
Yes you do!
Whether you are just starting out, have been playing for awhile, or are looking to get out of a rut, you need a practice routine. The routine will guide you, the routine will save you time, and the routine will let you know where you are.
There are people who work out, yet have no routine. Perhaps they’re goals aren’t concrete, they just know they want to stay in shape, but they don’t really know the best way to itemize their time. Perhaps they think they know, and when they don’t get the results they want, they blame genetics, or, for musicians, they blame talent.
Often we try to cram too much into our brains, without actually using any of the information! Using what we know already, but in different contexts is a better solution here!
The truth is that any creative endeavor can be learned and taught. Yes, some people are ‘faster’ at picking up certain aspects than others, but the idea here is the fundamental. Anyone can learn, they only need the desire to do so, and a teacher who can help them find their perfect routine.
Just like working out at a gym, anyone who wants to maximize their time will either hire a trainer. The trainer will then ask questions, trying to find out how much time they can devote, and what they’re end goals are. Playing music is no different. It works the same way. You set goals, you set a routine for getting them, and over time you adjust, setting higher goals, and getting better and better.
Not having a routine can lead to problems, such as:
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Feeling like you are not making any progress as a player
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Being ‘in a rut’ creatively
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Falling down the “youtube hole” looking for solutions to something you may or may not have a grasp on.
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Hitting a wall with some technical aspect of playing (speed, dexterity, tapping, sweep picking etc)
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Not being able to express what you want as a musician.
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Making many missteps to find a logical solution to a problem. Wasting lots of time and energy.
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Missing out on gigs or potential bands because of “____” problem.
With many of the problems you now face, an experienced teacher will know the best way to solve them. Some of the problems you face as a player aren’t even evident, because you are focused on PLAYING! It’s very difficult to assess yourself and play at the same time. It’s a lot like transcribing a dictionary while someone reads it out loud.
A great teacher can help you assess where you are as a player. Their primary goal is to find where your strengths are, your weaknesses, and turn those weaknesses into strengths! By creating a routine that is specific to YOUR personal needs and goals, you will make progress much faster.
Don’t know how to get started? Try booking an assessment lesson!
