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August 03, 2005
Self-Discipline
All right, I must admit that this is not a popular subject for many folks. A lot of people want what they want right away. No waiting, please.
I’m sure you’ve heard all the illustrations about how we have become an “instant” society; we have instant coffee, (well, I’ve guess we’ve had THAT a while), microwave ovens, movies and music on demand, instant credit, instant wealth, etc., etc…
I even teach a course currently called “Instant Piano.” That’s a snappy title, and it certainly gets people’s attention, but sometimes I wonder if I should change it. I get a little concerned that my students will get the wrong idea, that piano playing can be mastered in a few hours.
It is true that the basic concepts and skills needed to play the piano like a professional can be taught in a few hours, and I do it on a regular basis. But the student needs to take the “musical toolbox” that I give them in class, go home, and start using the tools. Yes, it can be fun, it can be exciting, but it does take a little effort.
Self-discipline in almost any area of life is eventually (usually not immediately!) rewarded. If you discipline yourself to eat less, eat the right things, and exercise consistently, you will be rewarded with a leaner, stronger body. Will the reward come instantly? No, of course not. But it’s eminently worth pursuing.
The same thing applies in your musical endeavors. I encourage you to spend some time each day, even if it’s only a few minutes, mastering chords, learning new songs, exercising your fingers, doing something with your music.
Some days you’ll feel as though you’ve made some progress, other days you may feel like you didn’t really get much done. But keep at it! Practice the long-lost art of self-discipline, and you will reap the benefits.
If it sounds good, it is good!
Posted by leon at 02:37 PM | Comments (0)