Inconsistency Produces an Inferior Musical Product

Steve Raybine:

Blog #61:

Inconsistency Produces an Inferior Musical Product

During a lesson with one of my drumset students, he mentioned that his bass drum playing was weaker because he had been practicing on an inconsistent basis. Is this a surprise to anyone? When has inconsistent practicing ever produced superior technique or superb anything for that matter? The answer is never!

Simply put, the best musicians practice on a regular basis, not an irregular basis. Why do you suppose this is? Because they've discovered that one of the prerequisites of becoming a great player is to maintain a consistent practice schedule. When musicians practice intermittently, they fail to derive the benefits one gains from practicing on a daily basis, such as developing and maintaining the innumerable skills required to be a superb instrumentalist. For drummers, we are dealing with some of the following issues such as:

1.) hand speed and effortless technical facility moving around the drumset

2.) single- and double-bass drum playing techniques--especially at a fast velocity

3.) playing time in multiple styles at a variety of tempi

4.) drum fills in multiple styles at a variety of tempi

5.) flawless execution of all rudiments at a fast velocity

6.) sightreading skills in all musical styles (rock; funk; R&B; jazz swing; latin; afro-cuban; etc.

In summation: if you desire to become an advanced and superlative instrumentalist, you must practice on a consistent basis--everyday is preferable if at all possible. Develop a regular practice routine and stick to it--don't allow yourself to compromise your commitment to excellence. Good luck and keep practicing under the supervision of an excellent instructor.

Copyright 2010 Steve Raybine

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