Do or Do Not. There is no try.

At the start of a new year (and the start of winter term in my studio) I ask students to name a goal to work toward during the next 12 weeks. Surprisingly, several students said they would like to “try to practice more.” As a teacher that encourages daily practice, I wondered what that really meant. Did “more” mean longer, or smarter, or more joyfully? More focused? More carefully? Each student had a different answer, but what really caught my attention was the word “try.” And so that is why I begin with the quote above, from one of my all-time favorite philosophers, Yoda:  

“Do or do not.”

That is the best thing about practice. It’s as simple as that. And of course, I strongly encourage myself (daily!) and my students and friends to practice. To “do” it. To spend time at the piano. Play. Play more. My students wonder, “But is it really practice if I didn’t accomplish something assigned? What if the coda is still challenging? What if I’m still unsure about the notes in that new section?” And I tell them, practice will get you there. You are doing it. In the doing is the learning. In the daily attention is accomplishment and ease. Just ask Yoda. And ask your teachers, friends, and colleagues for specific help when things are challenging. Try new things. Get creative with the tasks at hand.

What are your goals for these next few winter months? What are you practicing? I’m currently in love with Mozart K330. The first movement always leaves me smiling, even as I continue to strive for absolutely even 32nd-notes. The second movement Andante cantabile is my current challenge-I’m still feeling my way into the perfect tempo. And as for the third movement, let’s just say I’m remembering the joy in slow practice. Really slow practice. : )

Please share your practice ideas, suggestions, and thoughts below.

Have you practiced yet today?