Becoming an Effective Musician

Music has always been a huge part of my life. From the first time I heard an electric guitar as an infant, I knew I wanted to be a musician. Finally at the age of 12, my parents finally said that they would pay for guitar lessons for me. I was excited. Although I picked up the guitar because it sounded like it would be fun, I was in for one of the longest runs of self-discipline in my life. Sure there will be enjoyment to follow after the work is said and done. But the best things are to be experienced after a series of patience induced trials.

            When it come to playing any musical instrument, many have said, “I’ve tried it out once, but it was too hard.” This can be one of the most sadly common statements in our culture. We do not understand that working hard towards something can make almost any goal achievable. Persistence of hard work is slowly becoming a lost art form. Though, if you do apply yourself, you are able to learn to be the best musician and can accomplish almost anything.

            Time is something one must sacrifice when learning to play an instrument. I have spent many weekends in my room just sitting down practicing a guitar chord progression with a metronome. Sure I sacrificed many opportunities to hang out with friends, but it was and is still very important to invest much time into a passion and not just put it off till later. Usually when one says that they will get a project done later, it is never really finished.

            When it comes to learning any instrument, playing the song right alone in your bedroom is only half of the art. Performance is the other half. Sometimes you may face some of the most uncomfortable times ever when you start performing live for the first time. I have had my fair share of embarrassing events. I have messed up performance of songs for many reasons including playing in the wrong key or time signature. But due to some of those faults I have not failed, but learned about what not to do for those situations. Performing live is a system that is meant to build confidence as well as precise musicianship. We live in a visual culture. Recording an album alone does not get the job done. Performing a live energetic show helps a band maintain and gain fans. The band requires the energy of every performer to maintain the high level of stage presence.

            Sure there are many penalties for learning to become skilled at anything in music. However, becoming good at anything in this world requires great sacrifice and determination to become good. Similar to our walk with God, we must be willing to face the trials and challenges that face our way when learning to be good at any instrument. We must learn to be persistent and patient. Giving up is far too easy to do in this world. It is never too late to ever start a real challenge.