How do you build it?
Have you ever wondered how the performers on the big stage play and perform so effortlessly? There’s probably a lot more going on than meets the eye. Let’s get into it.
Professional musicians make playing look so effortless through their intense preparation. It all starts with practice and I mean lots of practice. Developing the skills to play every note perfectly begins with the basics and progresses from there. It’s all about building technical proficiency so that they can focus on the performance, project confidence and emotional connection to the song.
So, how long does it take to build technical proficiency? To reach an intermediate level, usually 3 to 5 years of 30 to 60 minutes of daily practice is required. To reach an advanced level of proficiency, an additional 5 years is needed. At this level, the instrument becomes an extension of your body. The 10,000 hour rule (Malcom Gladwell The Story of Success, 2008) is really more for world class mastery than a high level of proficiency, which can be accomplished in about the half the amount of hours.
When it comes to learning the music, the musician strives for deep familiarity, which makes it second nature eliminating any anxiety or nervousness. With the technical mastery out of the way, they are able to concentrate more on the nuances of the music than simply playing the notes. The other part of performing has to do with the physical. Warming up and stretching muscles before performing makes it easier to play and playing with a lighter touch allows for greater speed and dexterity. If you’re a singer, proper posture and breathing technique reduces physical strain.
Getting in the zone and treating the performance as a fun experience provides the look of confidence and control. Having a positive attitude and mindset also reflects in the effortless creation of music. Lastly, performing with better musicians makes you better. Do the work, build your experience and enjoy the ride.