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I explore how Music Makers can cultivate a mindful approach to piano practice. This method shifts focus from perfecting technique to embracing the journey, fostering creativity and personal growth. Welcome to the art of becoming a Mindful Musician.
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Published: March 2024
Hi, I'm Don:
25 years ago, I was a young pianist grappling with the pressure of perfection and performance.
Today, I'm privileged to have guided hundreds of adult learners in rediscovering their love for music.
My quest to unlock the secret of a joyful piano 'practice' culminated in the Flow Method, a unique approach that favors self-discovery over rigid traditionalism.
This space is where I'll share my vision of a world where making music is a way of life.
What started as an obsession became a refuge from a turbulent home life.
Music guided me to understand her secrets, leading me to delve deeper through a master's in piano pedagogy.
This journey became a source of identity, pride, and ultimately, a tool for mindfulness and self-discovery.
Over two decades of teaching adult learners, I've witnessed the transformative power of music.
But I've also seen how traditional piano education can stifle the joy of learning.
The pursuit of perfection often overshadows the joy of creation.
By shifting our focus towards the experience of making music with our fingertips, we can reconnect with music as our primal language, a form of emotional expression predating the invention of language.
In our modern world, music has become a free ubiquitous product.
Though seemingly devalued, music continues to be exploited for profit in every sphere, saturating every public space with an inescapable sonic barrage.
We've become music consumers rather than music makers, losing touch with our inherent capacity for musical expression.
For many, the dream of sitting at the piano and playing music they love can feel like a fading fantasy.
But what if that dream could be rekindled?
After playing for over 30 years on a daily basis, I've discovered that the piano is not just an instrument, but a powerful tool for holistic well-being.
Research has shown that playing music enhances cognitive abilities and promotes emotional health.
A study from the University of Barcelona found that adults who learned piano experienced decreased depression, improved mood states, and enhanced quality of life, surpassing the benefits of other leisure activities.
Additionally, a Harvard Medical School study reported that playing a musical instrument provided stronger protection against dementia than other cognitive activities like reading or doing crossword puzzles.
The numerous benefits of a piano 'practice' compound over time, so it's definitely worth overcoming any initial barriers.
This shift in perspective reimagines what it means to learn piano.
It's about exploring the creation of sounds, rather than striving only for perfection; experiencing joyful moments throughout the learning process, not just at song completion.
(We're still aiming for accuracy in creating our 'sound art'. It's about reframing how we perceive the 'mistakes' in our creative process.)
While many unknowingly chase short-term gratification and get discouraged with unfruitful practicing, we music makers groove to a different rhythm.
We focus on the discovery of creation, the fun in imperfection, and the power of calm, mindful practice.
Through my years of teaching and playing, I've discovered that nurturing a patient, curious approach to piano leads to more effortless, consistent musical growth.
This creates a sustainable, joyful practice that continually provides benefits even away from the keys.
Hidden treasures await those who explore a song's unexpected detours…
The Mindful Musician is for these people.
If this resonates with you, I've composed a Manifesto — a roadmap for music makers like us seeking a mindful approach to the piano.
The Mindful Musician: A Manifesto for Music Makers »
Music Maker
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Don't have a piano or keyboard yet? I've written a guide to help you find an instrument you'll love (without breaking the bank).
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