Spring Semester is drawing to a close.
I had my barrier jury today which I had spent probably the last 3 weeks preparing for. It was difficult material but not out of reach. The hardest part was not the preparation (long hours in the practice room), having some pain in my wrist and generally being stressed for a month prior, it is the fact that when I play nervously, my left hand and arm tenses up and begins shaking.
This is something I've been dealing with for years now and it's finally time to put it on the front burner and deal with it. I've taken Alexander Technique lessons for almost a year now and I know how my body is suppose to work while I play. In all honesty, that is all really a symptom of practicing while putting too much pressure on myself. This summer is about practicing and performing more relaxed. Thanks Jbizzle Dizzle :)
Goals for Ecuador:
Get gigs! (*fingers crossed for a gringa getting gigs in Quito!!!*)
Practice relaxed.
Work on some of the music that really inspires me! Transcribing, arranging and composing are top priorities with this time off from school obligations.
Much love,
María
Have you read "Effortless Mastery" by jazz pianist Kenny Werner? Your goal, "practice relaxed," reminded me of his concept of playing effortlessly. If you haven't read it, I really recommend it.
ReplyDeleteI'm not totally convinced as far as his method is concerned (my "new age marketing machine" sense is tingling), but there are some interesting concepts to be discussed. One of Werner's ideas is releasing the "need to sound good," his reasoning being that the only way to sound good is to loose your attachment to the sounding good. This rings true with me, but I'm unsure how to get to it . . .
I am bringing it with me to Ecuador (one of four books). I got a good way through it but then stopped, I think I will continue but if/when I finish it I will let you know!
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