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Dr. Hugo Norden, professor emeritus, coached me in Baroque counterpoint and harmony as a young naïve overconfident private student. He was a wise man; he knew how to handle characters like me. Mr. Story we are who we listen to. So, pick carefully" Dr. Hugo Norden 1981 Boston The law of association restated. I’ve spent forty plus years considering that advice. My conclusions: Our musical environment habitualizes our expectations of how music should sound and be presented. It will raise our expectations in both ourselves and what we ask and expect of others. It will also support our auxiliary studies such as theory and history. In short, inspire us to do better. To whom are you listening? Do your listening habits support your music studies or distract? Do you associate with other like-minded individuals such as fellow students, or concert goers? If I can help, call me. David
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The three most neglected aspects of music study. Theory: knowing what you are doing makes everything easier. The knowledge and application of theory allows us to discover and understand the notes which leads to insight and artistry.
How you think about the drum set, what you have heard, and what you understand about the musical past of the instrument determine how you play the instrument musically. Ed Soph, master teacher History: Different eras of music sound different. Why? The study of the history of your instrument and the history of music in general will answer that question and help your interpretations.
Now the big one. Ear Training:
The list goes on. Some folks have it easier here than others, but I can confidently say I started with a tin-ear and over time developed it to a remarkably high degree. I can help you too. Call me. Here are my thoughts for acquiring jazz chops.
1. Learn and memorize tunes by ear. 2. Join a band and play as much as possible. 3. Transcribe like crazy. 4. Record everything you do. 5. Learn more tunes. 6. Technique with a metronome. Various tempi. 7. Play Bach, Debussy and Faure. 8. Keep up your lessons. 9. Join a second band that plays only original music. 10. Write some original music. Bonus. Read and explore the history of jazz prior to school. If I can help you call me. David David How to practice the piano.
What do I practice is the perennial question? Here are some of my thoughts gleaned from decades of my personal practice and observing countless numbers of students.
If I can help, call me. I've been teaching online for over a decade. David  Winter is here, let's have some fun. David 
Many students who lack confidence in class would sound move confident by simply playing louder. Try 10% louder to start. Another take on fake it to 'til you make it. Secondly, crescendo when the melody rises and diminuendo when it falls, unless the composer or arranger says otherwise. This should help shed some of the timidity in your playing. Have fun. David |
You've got to learn your instrument. Then, you practice, practice, practice. And then, when you finally get up there on the bandstand, forget all that and just wail. AuthorI'm a professional pianist and music educator in West Toronto Ontario. I'm also a devoted percussionist and drum teacher. Categories
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