The Importance of Having Fun

Very often, we assign labels to our practice routines, performances, and even lessons. Although we must be prepared, we must also create momentary fun in all these experiences. Many times, we may say things like, "I get nervous, or even dread, performing in public." We may also say things like, "Practicing is so boring." When we do this, we are assigning labels to these activities. If we were only to embrace these experiences, no matter how challenging, we would probably have far greater success.

It all begins with thinking about the here and now, not the past (especially dwelling on past failures). When we do this, we relive those failures and the destroy the beauty of our present moment. We all tend to make ridiculous predictions about our future, either assuming failure or allowing ego-boosting delusions of grandeur. Rule No. 1: We must never psych ourselves up for a moment that has not yet occurred. Be advised, it is an utter waste of time. Very often, the simplest concepts become the most complex actions. Allowing and enjoying our present moment, without guilt, judgement, and prediction, will bring magical and divine intervention. Why is this? Well, it is simply the way and I believe it works. In the universe, everything seems to flow with a peaceful trust, rather than work for some controlling affirmation. Even if our preparation is lacking, let's have an ease of mind and inner stillness. Through experience, I still believe we'll render better results.

When I write these blogs, I don't think about what I'm writing...I just write, plain and simple. Very often, I end up with an abundant variety of concepts that steadily become more intriguing, and extremely gratifying, pursuits. Most importantly, they keep me on a consistent learning curve and always seeking questions, rather than expecting answers. We are all students, at different stages. You see, I am not proclaiming the right answers. Rather, I am proposing questions and asking everyone, including myself, to avoid plateauing. If our work reaches a plateau, it stops being fun. Rest assured, being stuck in a rut makes growth a mere pipe dream. Conversely, an attention to detail will certainly keep us busy and out of that rut. We must read different cello technique books and study with different teachers. In short, let's allow ourselves to decipher what works best for our artistic growth. Let's share ideas and not hoard them, as if they are only accessible by paying some big-name conservatory tens of thousands of dollars. As a teacher, my main goal is that all my students become their own teachers. This may be a gradual, and sometimes frustrating, process. Be not afraid! It always promises a fruitful harvest. However, this only happens when we truly enjoy and love our learning process. Therefore, we take an active interest and have fun every step of the way. Fun is a feeling...So, we need to be proactive, stake a claim, and relentlessly love our work.

Very often, wisdom comes quietly and from far less "distinguished" teachers. Must we always think a resume, showing study with a big-name teacher, will add prestige and make us great? Well, it may initially add prestige, however, everyone will then be waiting for our performance... At that point, everyone else will have already established pre-conceived, assumptive notions. Let's stop living in fantasy land. First, let's work on technique. We must always adjust posture, arm movements, and even bow holds, according to our own physique. Let's record ourselves, play for different people (teachers, colleagues etc.), and practice relaxation exercises. Yoga, meditation and being outdoors, in and around nature, will have an extremely beneficial, and calming, effect on energy levels.

So, what's the bottom line? Answer: All that matters are the end results. Did we achieve the desired musical experience? Did we relate a story effectively? Was our communication, through the cello, clear and concise (w/o hiccups)? The almighty resume pales in comparison to the present musical experience. Incidentally, this resume-hype is no different than psyching up for a performance. It doesn't work, period. No more flimsy assumptions/theories and let's start living, playing, and experiencing the here and now. Music is personal and needs our individual stamp of authentic belief, attentive nurture, and patience for growth.

It is always helpful to keep a practice journal, practice in front of a mirror, and write down all observations/findings/practice revelations. As we record ourselves, we should also take notes and sharpen those observation skills. Honestly, we must be utterly trusting, and allowing, of our own artistic process. Perhaps the answers are already there and waiting for discovery. In addition to the roles of philosophers and scientists, we are storytellers. Whether we know it or not, we are making the story up right now! While telling our story, we must dwell deep within the depths of our souls. Maybe we've thought about these stories in the past, but they are now being sculpted and formulated within our minds. They are authentic, honest, soulful, and do support a spectacular inspiration. Beautiful music never needs proof of past accomplishments, unnecessary hype, and political static. Remember, all we musicians have are our present moments and potential greatness (in the realm beyond our own self-validation). Greatness includes everyone, especially the audience, and we are all connected! Therefore, we performers are vulnerable, exposed, loving, sharing, trusting, and always aware! Let's take a stand and become engaged to this present moment! We must always remember the magical fun of momentary creation, while we tell an amazing, unique story. We strengthen our story as we share it with everyone, in each passing moment...