Students
who have worked with Michael in
"THE ART OF PRACTICING "

Janet Riley (vocalist/violinist)
"Thank you! Thank you! My practice is re-energized.
I've shifted my practice time to the morning,
and it's a much different experience.
It's a rush to complete something important
for myself before even leaving the house.
Makes me happy all day."

William Wright M.A. (Director, The Creative Union)
"The Art of Practicing workshop gave me
powerful tools to enhance my artistic process.
In a short amount of time, Michael was
able to take me through a very concrete process
which brought about measurable changes
in my feelings, perceptions, and behaviors for my art.
His workshop helped me to clarify my
artistic values and gave me many techniques
to improve my self discipline and my productivity.
And he did it all efficiently, and, with great humor."

Tami Brooke (vocalist, songwriter)
"So Thank You, for bringing your style,
your silliness and your expertise to this world.
It has touched me deeply and makes me
joyful to have experienced your class."

Andrew Watt (published poet and teacher)
"Michael Smolens brings together creativity
and productivity in his workshop, the Art of Practicing.
First separating our negative connotations of 'practice'
from the artist's mental process, he encourages
the creation of a new mythology around practice —
one rooted in reverence for the creative life,
honor for the artist's work, and the inherent
dignity of play. He captured the essence of
what I feel about my writing,
and I returned to my writing desk with
renewed vigor as a result of my work with him."

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