CHRISTOPHER GRAHAM

While there are many methods to teaching music, and finding the best one for each specific person’s learning style is important, students must be willing to at least try alternative approaches in varying amounts to be sure that they do not limit themselves to a singular process that works for them initially, but may hinder further progress in the future. We all have our ‘favorite’ ways of doing things, however to become a better musician we must be open to trying techniques and methods that might at first be awkward or unnatural, but could potentially be the key to improving or mastering a certain skill that will bring more personal enjoyment as you advance on the journey of learning to play and understand a particular instrument. It is important to remember that you will have more fun playing an instrument that you play well versus struggling and not being able to achieve your goals of hearing yourself interpreting favorite songs and repertoire or sharing those accomplishments with others. I always try to underscore that appreciating and respecting the task of practice and learning how to play is key to continuing long enough to see results and improvement. And while there are frustrating moments that inevitably arise on the voyage, if you can persevere through the trials and tribulations of the process, you will come out an all-around stronger person in the end.