*** 1.19.15 - Topic Of the Day... Practicing Habits To be great doesnt happen by accident. The great ones work even harder AND they have natural abilities. Practicing is a huge part of how we develop as a player. Not practicing enough or not having good practice routines, are a good way to not get to where your playing could be. Heres a couple of things that I can recommend to get yourself on the right track. Love to practice! If you dont love something then why do it? Any chance you get to play each day, you should. Being in it, is a big part of it. The right attitude toward learning is very important and having a real love for it makes practicing and learning fun. Practice smart! Practicing smart is something i always try to do. I do a little bit of everything (chords, scales, Improv, timing) and always make mental notes of things that Im processing. Try to visualize and internally process even when you dont have a guitar in your hands. Everything you do, timing should always be kept in mind. Tap your foot and/or use a metronome from time to time to make sure your sense of rhythm is tight. Listen! Being a good listener is huge. Not only to practice fingerings from the technical point but to remember that you are making music! So listen as a fan while you play. Is it musical? Does it sound good? If you are sloppy, clean up the signal until you can hear what the problem is. Slow it down and deconstruct it. Again, timing and developing a pocket while riffing or playing chords. If its not right, dont glaze over it. Slow it down until you are getting it right. Be honest with it and use your ears. All of the above, are simple ideas and should be things that every player could keep in mind while they are practicing. Regardless of your music style or level, just work hard and enjoy what you are playing! Thats the real reason for all of it. To enjoy it and see progress. Whether a bedroom guitarist and a touring player, practice and the mindset you have about it can be the best path to real growth and self improvement. No football, its Monday! Have a great one.
Posted on: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 07:33:51 +0000
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