Music, Teaching, Learning, and Life

That’s the question I continue to ask myself.

I’ve been through several seasons of my life in recent years: moved to a new community, earned a master’s degree, struggled through changes in my marriage, sent my first daughter off to college, and began a journey of regular practice. What is the purpose of all this practicing? I’m not sure. Does there need to be a larger purpose? My competitive nature tells me there should be.

I hear other musicians, both educators and performers and find my skills lacking. I’m 44 years old. Maybe I could have done more if I’d practiced regularly as a teenager and young adult. Hindsight doesn’t really help me at this juncture, though.

I don’t have a definitive answer for myself. I’m not sure I need one. With those questions in mind, I’m off to practice.

I came back after a few minutes of practicing to add one more thought. “Do more” translates in my mind to “play better.”