We've all heard the saying, "practice makes perfect," but as we learn more about the science of habits and the mind, it's becoming increasingly clear that this saying is outdated and potentially even dangerous. Instead, we should strive for positive patterns in our practice, which can lead to consistent improvement and lasting change.
In his book "Atomic Habits," author James Clear explains how small habits, repeated over time, can lead to significant improvements. He suggests that the key to effective practice is to create a system of small, manageable habits that are repeated consistently. One of the reasons why this approach is so effective is that our minds are wired to seek patterns. When we repeat a behavior over and over, our mind starts to recognize it as a pattern and makes it more automatic. This is why, for example, we can drive to work without really thinking about it – our mind has created a pattern for this behavior. The problem with the "practice makes perfect" mindset is that it oversimplifies the complex nature of skill acquisition and may foster unrealistic expectations. Seeking an unrealistic goal such as perfection can lead to frustration and tension, which can become habits themselves, and tied to our instrument. Besides, not all practice is equal, and mindless repetition alone does not guarantee improvement. Instead of aiming for perfection, we should focus on creating patterns of behavior that lead to consistent improvement. Edward de Bono, a physician, psychologist, and author, has written extensively about the concept of pattern recognition and its role in creative thinking. He argues that our ability to recognize patterns is crucial to our ability to solve problems and come up with new ideas. When we practice something, we are essentially training our mind to create and recognize patterns. Once we have learned a pattern, we are able to subconsciously recognize those patterns (and play them) with less mental effort. So how can we create patterns in our practice? Here are a few tips:
Here's how patterns and habits serve two key roles in a musician's life:
“Practice makes patterned" is a more accurate and effective saying than "practice makes perfect." It is a safer adage for many learning styles. By creating patterns of behavior through consistent practice, we can achieve lasting improvement and create meaningful change in our lives.
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Flute lessons are a fantastic way to explore your passion, improve your skills, and unleash your creative potential. However, when it comes to deciding on the duration of your lessons, there's more to consider than just the clock ticking away. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of various lesson durations—30 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes, and 90 minutes—to help you find the perfect tempo for your musical journey.
1. 30-Minute Lessons: The Quick Tune-Up Pros:
2. 45-Minute Lessons: Musically Balanced Pros:
3. 60-Minute Lessons: The Symphonic Standard Pros:
4. 90-Minute Lessons: The Epic Sonata Pros:
Considerations for Decision-Making:
Are you considering auditioning for a college music program? Embarking on a journey to pursue a musical education is an exciting and transformative endeavor. Whether you’re a budding virtuoso, a passionate composer, or an aspiring music educator, choosing the right music school is a critical step in shaping your future. Let’s look at a few factors to consider when looking at music schools to help you make an informed decision that harmoniously aligns with your musical aspirations.
Dr. Julee Kim Walker, Associate Professor of Flute at Texas A&M University-Commerce, suggests prioritizing compatibility with the flute instructor. “Get a trial lesson if possible. And seek a teacher that will offer support and mentorship both as a current student as well as after graduation.”
Dr. Walker adds, “Consider the location of the school. Does it have access to private teaching and freelance opportunities [for you]? Does it grant access to observe great music educators? Does it offer access to the arts: symphony, opera, etc.?” As you are learning to be a career musician, be
Conclusion Choosing a music school is a significant decision that will shape your musical journey for years to come. By carefully considering your goals, preferences, and the factors mentioned above, you can make a more informed choice that sets you on a path toward musical excellence. Remember, each school has its unique strengths, so take the time to research and explore your options thoroughly. With dedication, passion, and the right education, you’ll be ready to compose your own success story in the world of music. Walfred Kujala's ornaments for Vivaldi Concerto in C, provided by Flute Talk magazine.
Walfred Kujala's ornamentation of the Vivaldi piccolo concerto in C, as performed with the Chicago Symphony. Shared courtesy of Flute Talk Magazine.
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What are piccolos made from?
Piccolos can be made from various materials, each having its own unique characteristics and sound qualities. The choice of material can significantly impact the tone, projection, and overall performance of the instrument. Here are some common materials used in piccolo construction: Wood: Grenadilla, also known as African blackwood, is one of many types of wood used in professional-level piccolos as it is a dense wood. It is resonant and offers a warm, rich tone and excellent projection. Grenadilla wood is highly valued for its tonal quality and is often preferred by professional performers and orchestral musicians. It can be affected by temperature and humidity, so are not recommended for outdoor overuse. These piccolos are used by musicians who can properly care for the instrument. Common models include the Bulgheroni 401, the Yamaha 81, and the Burkart Elite. Composite Materials: Some piccolos are made from composite or synthetic materials, such as wood resin or carbon fiber. These materials aim to combine the tonal advantage of wood, with more durability and resistance to environmental changes. Their tone falls between the warmth of wood and the brightness of plastic and are great for pre-professional use. Common models include the Roy Seaman Storm and the Pearl 105. Plastic: Plastic piccolos are a popular choice for beginners and students due to their affordability and durability. They are lightweight and resistant to temperature and humidity changes, making them less susceptible to damage and cracking. Plastic piccolos tend to have a brighter tone compared to wooden ones and are great for the average band musician. Common models include the Gemeinhardt 4P and the Guo Grenaditte Metal: Metal piccolos, usually made of silver or nickel silver, are less common but can be found in certain musical genres like marching bands. Metal piccolos tend to produce a bright and penetrating sound with excellent projection. They are durable and can withstand outdoor performances in various weather conditions. Common models include the Yamaha 32 and the Jupiter 700, It’s important to note that material is just one aspect of a piccolo’s overall construction. The design, craftsmanship, and quality of keywork, headjoint (including traditional or wave cut), and other components also play a significant role in determining the instrument’s playability and sound characteristics. Gifts for the Graduating Musician
Show your support to a musician by giving them a gift that shows you care about their passion. If you’re looking for graduation gifts for a flute player, here are some ideas: 1. Music accessories You can gift your flute player accessories like cleaning kits, new cases, flute gig bags, music stands, and music electronics. The Valentino Flute Wand and Valentin Flute Helix Wand are great options that will save them time cleaning their flute, extending its life. Beaumont Case Covers are a great way to add a little functional style, with multiple patterns and designs, while the ergonomic backpack-style Altieri Flute and Piccolo Travelers remain the most popular gig bag among professionals. Music stands are a necessity in setting up a comfortable practice space, and portable stands like the Peak Music Stand is a great option as it can go from gig to dorm to rehearsal. The Konig & Meyer Folding Flute Stand is also a handy accessory that fits easily in a gig bag and gives the flute player a place to rest their flute upright. A Korg Tuner-Metronome is also a great gift, as phone-app tuners can provide an added distraction from productive practice. 2. Sheet music Investigate sheet music the student wants to learn for fun and for upcoming performances, and also consider sending your flute player off with some of the most common pieces and books. Most anything from the Best Sellers list will be a welcome addition to their library. Some of the most commonly requested staples for music majors include Baxtresser’s Orchestral Excerpts for Flute, the Taffanel and Gaubert 17 Daily Exercises, the Trevor Wye Omnibus, and the collections Flute Music by French Composers and Bach Sonatas. Check with their current or future flute teacher with a phone call or email – they will be glad to help the student get the best music for their next steps. 3. Flute gear Consider gifting them flute-themed apparel, jewelry, or coffee mugs to showcase their passion for music. A button or keychain can be a great apparel accessory to their jacket or bag, fun and hip. Flute-themed jewelry can be a wonderful addition to their concert blacks, that can also be worn daily to show pride in their instrument. A flute coffee mug will be a welcome companion to early-morning classes or late-night study and practice sessions. 4. Gift cards One may never really know what is best for a flute student, and their needs might be changing as they advance and progress. A gift card can be a thoughtful way of showing you understand that their needs are growing and changing, as that gift can provide them with what they need when they need it. 5. Music lessons Purchase a package of music lessons with a professional flutist to help students improve their skills after graduation and stay motivated throughout the summer. Feedback from an experienced professional, whether in person or online, can inspire and challenge the student. The expectations of these teachers might also help the student better understand the repertoire and practice demands awaiting if they are pursuing music in college. 6. Concert tickets Purchase tickets to see an orchestra or chamber ensemble concert, especially if it features flute music. This will allow them to experience live music and get inspiration from other musicians. Listening to music is one of the best ways for a student to understand high levels of performance and preparation. Remember, musicians' talents are always evolving, and the process can be quite challenging. Showing your support to your flute students and their passion will shape their attitude as they feel empowered and inspired to pave their path forward. Wood flutes and piccolos are some of the most beautiful, versatile, and sought-after musical instruments. For centuries, concert flute have been made of wood, providing an incredibly dynamic, emotive sound that continues to capture the imagination of musicians and audience alike. Here are a few things you should know about wood flutes and wood piccolos:
The Feel of Playing Wood Flutes and Wood Piccolos Playing a wood flute or piccolo can often provide you with a deep level of personal satisfaction, as they are known to help deliver an incredibly expressive, nuanced sound. The tone of wood can elicit a variety of emotions and moods – from haunting and sorrowful to joyful and celebratory. With a much lower material density than metal flutes, the wood concert flute will respond differently to your air and articulation, opening a new range of tone colors. The Different Types of Wood There are numerous types of woods used in crafting flutes and piccolos, each with its own qualities. The woods picked for flutes generally have a high density compared to other woods. As each wood has unique characteristics, its important to choose a type that aligns with the sound you are hoping to create.
Proper care and maintenance are critical for ensuring the longevity and performance of a wood flute. Wood flutes should be stored in a climate-controlled environment, shielded from sunlight and humidity, to avoid warping, cracking, or other damage to the wood. Regular cleaning and oiling of the wood will help to preserve the instrument’s natural finish. Consider keeping your wood flute or piccolo in its best shape with the regular maintenance included in a Flute Care subscription. Overall, wood flutes and piccolos offer a unique appeal and beautiful sound that is unmatched by synthetic instruments and separate from metal instruments. With the right care and maintenance, a wood flute or piccolo can last for your career, providing you with a source of inspiration from its warm, rich tone for years to come. Starting a Community Flute Choir
Starting a community flute choir program can be an exciting way to bring together a diverse group of people through a common passion. It can offer an opportunity for individuals of all ages and skill levels to create beautiful music while building relationships, and importantly, having fun. Here are some steps to help you get started with your own community flute choir program. Step 1: Define the Purpose and Goals of the Program Before you begin organizing your flute choir program, it is important to determine what you hope to achieve – define the purpose and goals of this program. Do you want to provide an outlet for amateur flutists to come together to casually play music, or do you want to create a high-level performance ensemble to perform at events? Do you want to focus on repertoire for C flutes, or expand to include the whole flute family? Do you hope to be paid for your time and, if so, how do you plan to handle finances? Do you have a library, plan to use music in public domain, or need to fundraise to purchase new music? Write out all of the goals and purposes of your program in a list, but know that list might need to be flexible as your ensemble grows. Step 2: Recruit Members The success of your flute choir program will depend on the members who join. Start by spreading the word about your program through local schools, music stores, and community organizations. Post flyers in community centers, libraries, and other public spaces. Reach out to local flute teachers and ask them to refer their students to your program. Flute teachers can also be a great resource for borrowing or renting music parts. Consider hosting an open house or audition to attract interested flutists. In these first contacts, be clear about the expectations for members, including rehearsal schedules and performance commitments. Survey those interested to see what instruments they have from the flute family (piccolo, C flute, alto flute, bass flute). Also be ready to provide resources to returning flute players. Step 3: Find a Rehearsal Space You will need to find a suitable space to rehearse. Consider renting a space from a local school or church, or contact your local parks and recreation department to see if they have any facilities available for use – some might even be willing to officially host, collect fees, and provide payment. Consider if the space has music stands, chairs, and other useful tools, or if the members will need to bring their own. Be sure to choose a space that is large enough to accommodate your group and has nice acoustics for larger groups. Make sure it is accessible to all members and has adequate parking. Step 4: Choose Music and Arrange Parts Choosing music in an important aspect of organizing a flute choir program. Consider the skill level of your members and choose pieces that will challenge them but are manageable. Select music that appeals to a wide variety of musical tastes and styles, and be sure to include both classical and contemporary pieces. Once you have chosen your music, arrange the parts for your ensemble. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of your members, and make sure that each part will be well-suited to highlight their abilities in an uplifting way. Step 5: Rehearse Regularly Rehearsal is essential to the success of your flute choir program. Schedule regular rehearsals at a convenient time for all members and be consistent with your schedule. Make sure that members are prepared and have the necessary music and equipment for each rehearsal. Use the time to work on technique, blend, balance, and expression. Provide feedback and encouragement to your members. Step 6: Plan Performances Performances are a great way to showcase the talents of your flute choir program. Consider performing at local events such as fairs, festivals, and community concerts. Also, consider hosting your own concerts and inviting friends and families to attend. The local retirement centers can also provide a welcoming audience. Be sure to plan and promote your performances well in advance, and make sure your members are prepared and confident. Starting a community flute choir program can be a rewarding experience for everyone involved. It requires a lot of work and dedication, but the end result is a beautiful and harmonious ensemble that brings people together through music. By following a simple plan, you can create a successful flute choir program in your local community. |
AuthorMatthew Allison, D.M.A. Archives
January 2024
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