SWBA-12 Rules of Practicing

The 12 Rules of Practicing

by Wynton Marsalis

Wynton Marsalis has been described as the most outstanding jazz musician and trumpeter of his generation, as one of the world’s top classical trumpeters, as a big band leader in the tradition of Duke Ellington, a brilliant composer, a devoted advocate for the Arts and a tireless and inspiring educator. He carries these distinctions well. His life is a portrait of discipline, dedication, sacrifice, and creative accomplishment. Here are his "The 12 Rules of Practicing" from the PBS Series, "Marsalis on Music", Part 4, "Tackling the Monster."

1. Seek Out Private Instruction. It could take years to figure out what a good teacher could show you quickly.

2. Write Out A Schedule. Include fundamentals always.

3. Set Goals. Chart your development. Challenge yourself.

4. Concentrate. Develop the ability to FOCUS. Do not "just go through the motions.".

5. Relax. Practice Slowly.

6. Practice Hard Parts Longer. Confront your deficiencies.

7. Play with Expression. Give yourself over to what you are doing. Do everything with the proper attitude. Do not be a cynic. The expression you play with is your style.

8. Learn From Your Mistakes. Do not be too hard on yourself. Resolve to improve each day.

9. Don't Show Off. Expression, not tricks or gimmicks. Showing off misses the point of group playing.

10. Think For Yourself. Respect your teacher, but think things through for yourself.

11. Be Optimistic. How you feel about living is who you are.

12. Look For Connections. The more you discover similarities in things that seem to be different, the greater the world you can participate in.