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What is the best way to get better at music ?
What can i do to be better at doing music?
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7 answers
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Seth’s Answer
I hate to give the "obvious" answer, but it really comes down to practice and immersion. I get it, practice can be frustrating, especially when it feels like you aren't "getting it." The tricky thing is that we almost never have a tangible "Eureka!" moment, where everything suddenly falls into place. Instead, the most visible moments of progress come with hindsight, where we look at what we've just done and say "Huh, I couldn't do that last month/year." This apparent lack of gratification can feel discouraging, especially in the early stages, so it's important to remind yourself that yes, it really will pay off in the long run.
The other thing I recommend is immersing yourself in as much music, with as much variety, as you can. Listen to albums intentionally, go to live performances of all kinds and sizes, make an effort to notice music in movies or video games, etc. Find the music that really makes you feel something, and see if you can figure out what it is about it that's speaking to you. With time and experience, you'll get a clearer sense of how the music you like works, and you can incorporate the elements of it into your playing.
The other thing I recommend is immersing yourself in as much music, with as much variety, as you can. Listen to albums intentionally, go to live performances of all kinds and sizes, make an effort to notice music in movies or video games, etc. Find the music that really makes you feel something, and see if you can figure out what it is about it that's speaking to you. With time and experience, you'll get a clearer sense of how the music you like works, and you can incorporate the elements of it into your playing.
Thomas O'Shea
Music Producer, Composer, Live Sound Engineer, Musician
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Madison, Wisconsin
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Thomas’s Answer
Preparation prevents poor performance. Practice makes perfect.
I lived by those rules to get better at music because it's true. You need to put time into your craft in order to become good at music. Whatever you enjoy doing, you have to do that every single day. Do you like singing? Sing intentionally every day. Play an instrument? Practice for at least an hour a day. Write songs? Write a song a day. Produce music? Produce a beat a day.
If you haven't heard of it yet, there is a theory called the 10,000 hour theory. That means it takes 10,000 hours to truly master something. During those 10,000 hours, sometimes you'll have bad days. You'll perform sub par, or have a bad practice day. Maybe you don't like anything you make. Either way you have to keep going. Put in those 10,000 hours.
I lived by those rules to get better at music because it's true. You need to put time into your craft in order to become good at music. Whatever you enjoy doing, you have to do that every single day. Do you like singing? Sing intentionally every day. Play an instrument? Practice for at least an hour a day. Write songs? Write a song a day. Produce music? Produce a beat a day.
If you haven't heard of it yet, there is a theory called the 10,000 hour theory. That means it takes 10,000 hours to truly master something. During those 10,000 hours, sometimes you'll have bad days. You'll perform sub par, or have a bad practice day. Maybe you don't like anything you make. Either way you have to keep going. Put in those 10,000 hours.
And just to add to these helpful numbers, it's also shown to be the biggest improvement you can make in the fastest time if you put 20 hours into something, and then see where you're at. So you don't have to tell yourself you'll be a famous musician or someone who has to hit some huge goal for now, just pick what it is you want to spend time on (appreciating/listening? Playing? Singing? Something else?) and pick how you can spend 20 hours on that right now or over the next couple weeks or months. After you've gotten your 20 hours in, then you'll be able to decide where to go next from there.
Katherine Avery
Updated
Mary Patrice’s Answer
Hi, Denali. It's quite simple but impactful, keep practicing and explore a variety of music styles! I really believe that they can help you improve as a musician. Try to set aside some time each day to work on your technique, practice scales and arpeggios, and dive into new pieces. It’s also super helpful to get comfortable with reading music sheets and understanding how compositions are put together. Studying music theory can also give you some amazing insights into musical concepts and how to use them effectively. And don't forget to check out YouTube. There are tons of helpful videos out there! Another great way to boost your skills is by joining workshops, masterclasses, and other music events. They’re perfect for meeting fellow musicians, getting practical tips, and staying motivated. I hope these ideas help you on your musical journey!
Updated
Austin’s Answer
Hello and good morning.
Well with anything that you want to do in life, and what I mean by that is is how much you apply yourself to do the things that you enjoy doing or you feel that your life's calling or what have you. So to make this short and sweet I would say that if you want to get good at something it's how much you practice it and you're going to have to put some kind of practice and some kind of application in for to get better at what it is that you want to do. So the key word is you guessed it practice! God bless.
Well with anything that you want to do in life, and what I mean by that is is how much you apply yourself to do the things that you enjoy doing or you feel that your life's calling or what have you. So to make this short and sweet I would say that if you want to get good at something it's how much you practice it and you're going to have to put some kind of practice and some kind of application in for to get better at what it is that you want to do. So the key word is you guessed it practice! God bless.
Updated
Mauricio’s Answer
Hi! If you're looking to improve your musical skills, there are several effective strategies you can consider:
Consistent Practice: Regular practice is key. Dedicate specific times each day to work on your instrument, vocals, or production skills. Balance technical exercises with creative exploration to ensure a well-rounded development.
Formal Education: Taking lessons or enrolling in courses, either in person or online, can provide structured guidance and personalized feedback. A teacher can help you progress more efficiently and address specific areas of improvement.
Listening and Analysis: Expose yourself to a variety of music genres and styles. Analyzing different pieces can deepen your understanding and inspire your own creativity.
Performing and Collaborating: Engaging with other musicians, joining a band, or performing live can enhance your skills and build confidence. Collaboration and live experience are invaluable for growth.
Setting Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for your musical development. Whether it's mastering a new technique or composing a piece, setting goals helps you stay motivated and measure your progress.
Recording and Reviewing: Record your practice sessions and performances. Reviewing these recordings can help you identify areas for improvement and track your advancement over time.
Staying Inspired: Keep your passion for music alive by exploring new genres, attending concerts, and connecting with the music community. Inspiration is crucial for maintaining motivation and creativity.
By incorporating these practices into your routine, you'll find yourself continually improving and growing as a musician.
Wishing you all the best on your musical journey.
Consistent Practice: Regular practice is key. Dedicate specific times each day to work on your instrument, vocals, or production skills. Balance technical exercises with creative exploration to ensure a well-rounded development.
Formal Education: Taking lessons or enrolling in courses, either in person or online, can provide structured guidance and personalized feedback. A teacher can help you progress more efficiently and address specific areas of improvement.
Listening and Analysis: Expose yourself to a variety of music genres and styles. Analyzing different pieces can deepen your understanding and inspire your own creativity.
Performing and Collaborating: Engaging with other musicians, joining a band, or performing live can enhance your skills and build confidence. Collaboration and live experience are invaluable for growth.
Setting Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for your musical development. Whether it's mastering a new technique or composing a piece, setting goals helps you stay motivated and measure your progress.
Recording and Reviewing: Record your practice sessions and performances. Reviewing these recordings can help you identify areas for improvement and track your advancement over time.
Staying Inspired: Keep your passion for music alive by exploring new genres, attending concerts, and connecting with the music community. Inspiration is crucial for maintaining motivation and creativity.
By incorporating these practices into your routine, you'll find yourself continually improving and growing as a musician.
Wishing you all the best on your musical journey.
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Matty’s Answer
The 10,000-hour theory is truly inspiring! Indeed, consistent practice is key to mastering any skill. It's perfectly fine if you don't fall in love with every creation of yours, be it song lyrics, vocals, or instruments. Each piece you create, whether you adore it or not, serves as a stepping stone, honing your skills and enhancing your craft. Furthermore, make sure to invest time in collaborating with others. The energy and unique viewpoint of someone else can ignite a new spark in your creativity. Embrace the limitless possibilities and never shy away from experimenting.
Updated
Ritam’s Answer
To get better at music, fully immerse yourself by practicing consistently and purposefully, focusing on specific goals. Deepen your understanding of music theory and apply it to your playing and composing. Seek guidance from a teacher for personalized feedback, and actively listen to a variety of music for inspiration. Collaborate with other musicians to develop your skills, and record yourself to track progress. Engage in improvisation and composition to boost creativity. Stay motivated by setting exciting goals, and take breaks to reflect and recharge, ensuring continuous growth as a musician.