By Robert Fisher, Catoctin School of Music How good is your memory? Are you gifted with the ability to see or hear something once and recall forever? For most musicians, even those highly trained and advanced in their specialties, overcoming forgetfulness is a part of the battle we face in daily practice. The search for perfection is elusive, yet most strive to correct mistakes and remember...
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by Jamey Mann, Catoctin School of Music It is too often that clients sign up for music lessons without really understanding what a commitment it is. For a student to be successful the client must be ready to commit time and money to get the full benefit. Those who view music lessons as just another temporary activity, misunderstand the impact music could have in their lives....
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by Jennene Estes, Catoctin School of Music Almost all of my most successful motivational ideas are borrowed, stolen, or are a modified version of another teacher’s idea. “Listen Like a Maniac” is no exception. Michelle Horner and her daughter were practicing daily. Together, they were carefully following the advice of her daughter’s violin teacher. But even though Michelle is an accomplished guitar teacher, her daughter’s progress on...
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What would you say is the most important aspect of excelling in music? Daily practice? Is it mastering technique? Developing artistry and musicality? Becoming experienced in live performance? These are all admirable elements of becoming a well-rounded musician, however, long-term success is built on a solid foundation. That foundation in any rehearsal or performance is built on Warm-ups! Look at athletes worth their weight as they...
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By Alyssa Cowell, Catoctin School of Music As musicians, we understand the importance of expression when it comes to interpreting a piece. As teachers, we want to help our students develop technical skills that will allow him/her to play in a manner that touches an audience. In order to decide what techniques to apply, however, a musician has to have a clear understanding of the message...
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