The Musician's Way Blog

“Music expresses that which cannot be put into words
and that which cannot remain silent.”
-Victor Hugo, The Musician’s Way, p. 5

All of us musicians feel something within us that cannot remain silent.

But to forge lasting, full-time music careers, we have to make wise choices about the kinds of work we do and the ways we live our lives. Continue Reading

“For music and service to become your way of life,
you must confront economic realities.”
-The Musician’s Way, p. 299

Aspiring classical musicians commonly study in a context resembling the ancient “master-apprentice” model.

That is, they take lessons from one individual over a span of years and depend on that person to cultivate their artistic, technical, and career skills.

Does that educational arrangement make sense? Continue Reading

“How can music schools better prepare graduates for the innovation economy?”

The April 2013 issue of The Musician’s Way Newsletter brings together more than 20 articles and resources pertinent to student and professional musicians.

You’ll discover creativity and songwriting tips, new websites that list performance opportunities, music education features, and a story of classical musicians who are adding fizz to their music scene by performing in a pub. Continue Reading

“If you’re dedicated to becoming a professional,
you have to prepare to compete in the marketplace.”
-The Musician’s Way, p. 300

Countless young musicians aspire to become professionals, but few understand the music industry well enough to make wise choices about how to grow their careers. Continue Reading

“It’s your internal motivation that opens the creative spigot.”
-The Musician’s Way, p. 105

Those of us who create day after day know that things don’t always go smoothly. Sometimes our work flows; other times difficulties slow us down.

But whether we’re dealing with good days or not, one simple practice helps keep our creativity rolling. Continue Reading

“No pitch is merely a pitch; each one has a living quality.”
-The Musician’s Way, p. 20

The February 2013 edition of The Musician’s Way Newsletter has arrived in subscribers’ inboxes and is being widely shared.

As usual, the newsletter incorporates more than 15 articles that explore issues of music making, practice, creativity, career building, technology and more.

You’ll find resources to easily publish websites, ticket concerts, and improve ear training skills. There are announcements about technological innovations and professional opportunities. Continue Reading

“Music has to be recognized as an agent of social development, in the highest sense because it transmits the highest values – solidarity, harmony, mutual compassion.”*
-Jose Antonio Abreu, founder of El Sistema

American orchestras are contracting as budget deficits compel ensembles such as the Atlanta Symphony to shorten their seasons and cancel concerts. Continue Reading

Andre Watts performs from memory with the Atlanta Symphony

“Performing from memory can be a beautiful thing.”
–The Musician’s Way, p. 82

As someone who has performed countless solos, I know the upsides and downsides of playing with and without a score.

We musicians often hash over the issue of whether to memorize or not, and pianist Stephen Hough thoughtfully examined the pros and cons in a 2011 article in The Guardian. Continue Reading

“Take the action and the insight will follow.”
–Anne Lamott, author (The Musician’s Way, p. 107)

Suppose that you want to start a creative project – compose a solo, write a song, design a logo, or whatever.

You’ve done your research and set aside time to work.

Do you typically dive into such projects, or do you tend to procrastinate?

Continue Reading

“Rich artistic futures await the musicians who are unafraid to cut loose from predictable moorings.”
-The Musician’s Way, p. 109

The December/January edition of The Musician’s Way Newsletter looks into creativity-boosting strategies, low-cost CD/DVD production services, and exciting innovations in the music world.

Music teachers will find valuable resources, too, including tips for improving students’ practice habits and attitudes toward practice. Plus, singers and voice teachers will find important ideas for sustaining vocal health and advancing artistry. Continue Reading