Happy Monday! We're about a month into the new school year, the season is changing, and we're finding rhythm in our day to day routine---now's the perfect time to talk about motivation.
We asked our fellow musicians (you) to help us compile a list of ways to stay motivated musically. And so, without further ado, here are our top five ways to stay passionate about playing your instrument:
Attend Live Performances
Seeing performances and concerts as a musician is not only an enjoyable experience, it's inspiring too! Becoming engaged in the musical community fosters passion and creativity. If you appreciate seeing and hearing musicians doing what they love, you're sure to pick up some motivation.
Josh, from Lamphere HS, finds motivation from seeing Drum Corp International performances---we agree 100%. Those shows are AMAZING.
Create A Practice Space
It's important to feel comfortable where you're practicing. Take a step further from mere comfort and create a space where you can practice that gives you positive vibes. Whether it's the corner of your bedroom, or in your basement, or living room, find a space that you can decorate a little (or, a lot :D). Print out some inspiring photos or quotes, and purchase a music stand (we kind of find it's like going to the gym---it's much easier to be motivated when you're there. The same goes for instrument practice---if you're instrument is out, it calls to you).
Furthermore, create a habit. It's true inspiration won't always find you, but it's more likely to when you give it the opportunity.
Set Goals
Create long and short term goals for yourself. What do you want to improve on in the next six months? What do you want to accomplish in tomorrow's practice? Write these goals down. Pin the long term goals next to the inspirational photos and quotes you hung up, and write down each practice session's goal ahead of time.
Record and track your progress. You'll be amazed at how far you come. Seeing and hearing how you've developed will provide great motivation.
And don't forget---reward yourself!
Perform
Play for you friends and family, sign up for Solo & Ensemble, perform at local open mics. Scheduling performances will hold you accountable to practice---if you want to play well. And the feeling following a performance, well, that's pretty spectacular.
Have Fun
No practice method is set in stone. Experiment and find what works best for you---what gives you your desired result? Do that. Play with other musicians, play music you enjoy. Cultivate your love and curiosity for music and motivation will be there.