"This workshop helped me see practicing as an evolving art
and helped take my music to the next level.
I saw the common struggles that musicians
of all different levels face in their practicing
and learned about the tendencies of the subconscious mind
(e.g. "End Gaming") that can hinder
efficient practice."
Jimena C. (pianist/violinist/composer)
"This workshop made me aware of how important
scheduling my practicing was and how to create
an effective practice routine. The sheer variety of practice logs that were presented was great because it addressed
so many different peoples’ interests. I also loved our ZOOM Breakout Rooms! They really helped the material sink in,
and opened me up to alternative perspectives
on the material that I had not considered.
Because teachers typically assume students already know
how to practice efficiently, it tends to be a topic most students
are in the dark about. That is why it was really nice
to have a safe space to talk about practicing challenges —
the struggles, how to deal with procrastination, etc."
Andrei Secor (pianist)
"This workshop really helped me with my
biggest issue regarding practicing, which is
getting started. I can't pinpoint what exactly changed,
but I find myself able to practice more
since the workshop. Michael's Master Classes
highlighted different ways to practice more efficiently,
so I now have an easier time
breaking down technical difficulties.
Another thing that stuck with me is the idea of
Artistic Relationship Containers:
it helps explain and analyze some of my otherwise
strange habits around practicing. I definitely feel more
self-aware about what is going through my mind
both before and while I practice now, which helps me
to create a simpler practicing environment."
Sterling Johnson (award-wining bubble artist)
"I am a bubble performer, and in a room of mostly
musicians, almost everything Michael said applied to me
as much as to musicians. Michael asks probing questions;
he listens; and he speaks clear wisdom. He offers simple
(but not necessarily easy) ways to approach the common problems we all have in perfecting our art.
What a gift this class is!"
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."
Ron W. (pianist)
"Alternating between the theoretical/psychological
and nuts n' bolts practical tools really worked for me.
Looking at our own personal practice issues in the group
allowed me to see how universal they were."
Kathy D. (pianist/writer)
"The discussion on practice distractions and the concept
of 'completion' versus 'finishing' was invaluable..."
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/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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class description
