A few thoughts on having a practice

Over the past few weeks, something that came up repeatedly in talking to artists and teachers is the idea of practice – something so obvious in instrumental music that it’s hardly ever talked about. But what about electronic music, what about composition? Clearly, motor skills can be removed from the equation to a high degree. But first, should they? And then, what about skills of perception, action, reaction? What about amassing experience? Having had an instrumental practice, and a systematic one at that, has been vital for me while studying more abstract arts. Doing this has allowed me to transfer knowledge to other aspects of being an artist, such as the perceptional skills mentioned above.

Whether you’re reading the Composition Exercises on this site, if you’re enjoying the programming screenshots I’m posting, reading an essay (perhaps this extensive one on deliberate practice?) or coming to a sound walk with me – these are snapshots of my practice.

If we’re going to make progress in our work, better have a regular, deliberate engagement with it.

PS: Another Touch Guitar Circle starts in Berlin today. For the time being I have disengaged with that particular practice, but I am there in spirit.

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