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The Bulletproof Musician podcast

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The Bulletproof Musician

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  Noa Kageyama  

Ever wonder why you can practice for hours, sound great in the practice room, and still be frustratingly hit or miss on stage? Join performance psychologist and Juilliard alumnus/faculty Noa Kageyama, and explore research-based “practice hacks” for beating anxiety, practicing more effectively, and playing up to your full abilities when it matters most.

Ever wonder why you can practice for hours, sound great in the practice room, and still be frustratingly hit or miss on stage? Join performance psychologist and Juilliard alumnus/faculty Noa Kageyama, and explore research-based “practice hacks” for beating anxiety, practicing more effectively, and playing up to your full abilities when it matters most.

 

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#362

What Causes "Choking" Under Pressure? And What Can We Do About It?

Have you ever had one of those days on stage where you suddenly can't seem to do a thing that normally is never an issue? Or maybe it's one of those days where everything just spontaneously falls apart? And for seemingly no reason at all, even though you were as prepared as you've ever been?Athletes call this "choking." Or the "yips" (which I think is funner to say). There's actually been quite a bit of interesting research on why this happens. And the answer is way more interesting than "nerves" or "pressure."Get all the nerdy details on why this happens and what you can do about it here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/what-causes-choking-under-pressure-and-what-can-we-do-about-it/'>What Causes "Choking" Under Pressure? And What Can We Do About It?</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

19 Jan 2025

10 MINS

10:49

19 Jan 2025

#361

The Truth About Cramming: Why Your Brain Needs Breaks

Taking breaks in the middle of practice or study sessions can be a pain. Often, it's a lot easier and more convenient to just power through and get it over with.But what price do we pay by not spacing out our learning, over multiple days, or with practice or study breaks? Does this really make that much of a difference?Two studies from the literature suggest that spaced learning can make quite a significant difference, actually. And one study explains why, highlighting the very different things that happen in the brain when we take breaks vs when we don't.Get all the nerdy details and references here: <a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/does-cramming-get-a-bad-rap/'>The Truth About Cramming: Why Your Brain Needs Breaks</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

12 Jan 2025

09 MINS

09:07

12 Jan 2025

#360

Orli Shaham: On Overcoming Setbacks and Learning to Trust the Process

Ever had one of those “I’m a total failure, and I’m never going to be invited to play with these folks again” moments? In this month’s chat, pianist Orli Shaham shares a deeply personal story about a performance at the Spoleto Festival in Italy, where rehearsals went so badly, that the piece she prepared was pulled from the program. It felt like a “complete failure” at the time, but the experience prompted her to evaluate her preparation process. Which eventually led to one of her career highlights - a performance of John Adams’s first piano concerto, in Carnegie Hall, where Adams came onstage during the applause and gave her the greatest compliment she could have asked for, as he said “You got it. You really got it.” If you’ve ever struggled with feeling out of your depth, this episode is for you. Get all the nerdy details right here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/orli-shaham-on-overcoming-setbacks-and-learning-to-trust-the-process/'>Orli Shaham: On Overcoming Setbacks and Learning to Trust the Process</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

05 Jan 2025

53 MINS

53:59

05 Jan 2025

#359

A Backward Strategy for Enhanced Goal-Setting Success

Maybe you've set some goals for the coming year, but you're not quite sure where to start, and feeling a little overwhelmed? Or maybe you have a history of setting goals but not following through?A 2017 study looked at a "backwards" strategy for goal-setting and found that this increased motivation, follow-through, and actual performance as well!Get all the nerdy details here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/a-backwards-strategy-to-increase-the-likelihood-of-achieving-your-big-goals/'>A Backward Strategy for Enhanced Goal-Setting Success</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

29 Dec 2024

08 MINS

08:07

29 Dec 2024

#358

4 Approaches to Goal Setting (And Which Works Best)

Are you a little overwhelmed by all of the different year-in-review and goal-setting methods you're getting in your inbox? If you're confused by the variety and range of approaches out there and just want a bare-bones minimalist option to ensure that you actually do it, a 2006 study of four different goal-setting strategies provides some simple, clear guidelines.Get all the nerdy details here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/if-youre-going-to-set-goals-this-is-probably-how-you-should-do-it/'>4 Approaches to Goal Setting (And Which Works Best)</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

22 Dec 2024

07 MINS

07:49

22 Dec 2024

#357

Do Extroverts Make Better Performers Than Introverts?

Have you ever wondered if there's an advantage to being an extrovert or introvert when it comes to performing?Well, I'm afraid you're going to have to keep wondering, because I couldn't find a definitive answer one way or the other from the existing research. But I did find an interesting study of figure skaters, which looked at the impact of *shyness* on performance. It's important to note that being introverted and being shy are NOT the same thing. But could being shy have some effect on how well we're able to perform?Get all the nerdy details here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/do-extroverts-make-better-performers-than-introverts/'>Do Extroverts Make Better Performers Than Introverts?</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

15 Dec 2024

07 MINS

07:08

15 Dec 2024

#356

Laurie Scott & Cornelia Watkins: On Going From the Stage to the Studio

“See one, do one, teach one” is a model for learning that’s been utilized in medicine for many generations. It’s quite a helpful model, but if you’ve ever tried your hand at teaching, you know how incredibly challenging that can be. Often, teaching a skill can be even more difficult that doing the skill itself! Like, how can we teach a student to be more expressive? How can we ensure each student has a positive emotional connection with the music at each lesson - even if just for a moment? How can we turn students into active/inquisitive learners rather than passive/compliant learners? Laurie Scott (University of Texas at Austin) and Cornelia Watkins (Northwestern University) co-authored From the Stage to the Studio: How Fine Musicians Become Great Teachers, which is written for university studio faculty, music pedagogy teachers, college music majors, and performing musicians, who are looking to be more effective in their teaching. In this month’s chat, we’ll learn more about the synergistic relationship between playing and teaching, the problems of dividing music students into “pedagogy” and “performance” majors, how we can teach musical expression very early on in a student’s development, how we can all become better teachers using a technique that won’t come as a surprise but most of us will probably try to avoid, how to help your students become better noticers, and much more.Get all the nerdy details here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/laurie-scott-cornelia-watkins-on-going-from-the-stage-to-the-studio/'>Laurie Scott & Cornelia Watkins: On Going From the Stage to the Studio</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

08 Dec 2024

51 MINS

51:05

08 Dec 2024

#355

Does How We Look On Stage Matter More Than How We Sound...?

Have you ever wondered how much the visual aspect of a performance matters to the listener?Like, if you were going to enter two competitions, where one required submitting an audio recording and the other required a video recording, which one would you have a better chance of being accepted to? Or would it make any difference at all?A 2013 study of international competition finalists went viral, when it seemed like the results suggested that how a musician looks on stage matters more than how they sound. But is that really what the study found?Get all the nerdy details here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/does-style-really-trump-substance/'>Does How We Look On Stage Matter More Than How We Sound...?</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

01 Dec 2024

11 MINS

11:41

01 Dec 2024

#354

Does Counting Our Blessings Really Change Anything?

Thanksgiving is just a few days away, so whether your holiday will be of the turkey, turducken, or Tofurky variety, the one thing we all have in common is that someone will suggest that we go around the table and share one thing that we're grateful for, just as we're about to eat. 🥹There are an awful lot of quotes out there about how we ought to count our blessings. And it does sound like a good thing to do. But does this actually do anything?Get all the nerdy details right here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/does-counting-our-blessings-really-change-anything/'>Does Counting Our Blessings Really Change Anything?</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

24 Nov 2024

06 MINS

06:56

24 Nov 2024

#353

An Easier Way to Get Better at Mental Imagery?

You've heard that mental practice and mental imagery can help enhance your learning - but what if your images are fuzzy and this is difficult for you? Is this something that you can get better at with practice?Spoiler alert: yes - and a 2014 study provides some insights into a way to improve your mental imagery abilities that might be easier than practicing imagery the regular old-fashioned way. Through a technique called "action observation."But is action observation as effective as the traditional way of practicing imagery?Get all the nerdy details, references, and more right here: <a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/a-research-based-hack-that-could-improve-your-mental-practice-and-build-confidence-too/'>An Easier Way to Get Better at Mental Imagery?</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

17 Nov 2024

09 MINS

09:59

17 Nov 2024

#352

A Better Way to Do Mental Practice?

The use of mental practice or mental imagery to enhance learning and performance is extremely common amongst  athletes in sports. And it’s something that musicians like Horowitz, Rubinstein, Glenn Gould, and learners at all levels have been known to use in music as well. But I’ve had students and professional musicians alike tell me that they sometimes have difficulty making the imagery feel real. Or that they have difficulty staying engaged with it. As in, one minute they’re visualizing some music, and the next, their mind has drifted off to food. Or they fall asleep. 🤣 Could there be a better way to do visualization?Get all the nerdy details and study links here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/why-do-we-have-to-sit-still-when-doing-mental-imagery/'>A Better Way to Do Mental Practice?</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

10 Nov 2024

08 MINS

08:29

10 Nov 2024

#351

Not an Optimist? How to Make Pessimism Work for You.

Do optimists have an advantage when it comes to performing better under pressure? Not necessarily! The research suggests that there are multiple types of pessimism. And that the right kind of pessimism can work too!Get all the nerdy details at: <a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/not-an-optimist-how-to-make-pessimism-work-for-you/'>https://bulletproofmusician.com/not-an-optimist-how-to-make-pessimism-work-for-you/</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

03 Nov 2024

07 MINS

07:22

03 Nov 2024

#350

Can Breathing Really Help Reduce Anxiety? Or Is It Just a Cliché?

Can the right sort of breathing really reduce anxiety? The short answer is yes - but why?A 2017 study illustrates how breathing could help reduce stress/anxiety, another 2017 study explains why, and a 2023 study highlights an unusual breathing technique that's worth trying!Get all the nerdy details at: <a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/does-just-breathe-really-help-us-lower-anxiety-or-is-it-just-a-total-cliche/'>https://bulletproofmusician.com/does-just-breathe-really-help-us-lower-anxiety-or-is-it-just-a-total-cliche/</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

27 Oct 2024

08 MINS

08:52

27 Oct 2024

#349

Go From Procrastination to Productivity With “Temptation Bundling”

Have you ever struggled to maintain a new habit? Like exercising, or recording yourself more often, or transcribing lesson recordings?A 2013 study found that a strategy called "temptation bundling" could boost your likelihood of sticking with your new behavior.Click below for all the nerdy details: <a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/temptation-bundling-how-to-stop-procrastinating-on-the-important-things-yet-still-indulge-in-guilty-pleasures-guilt-free/'>Go From Procrastination to Productivity With “Temptation Bundling”</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

20 Oct 2024

06 MINS

06:58

20 Oct 2024

#348

A Better Way to Bounce Back From Disappointing Setbacks

A 2008 study highlights the two ways we often respond to disappointments and setbacks. They both work ok in the short term, but one is more effective in the long term.So what determines which one we choose? And how can we ensure we choose the approach that is more effective in the long term?Get all the nerdy details, references, and other links right here: <a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/two-ways-to-repair-our-bruised-ego-after-disappointing-setbacks/'>A Better Way to Bounce Back From Disappointing Setbacks</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

13 Oct 2024

09 MINS

09:12

13 Oct 2024

#347

Why Giving Students Choices Could Dramatically Enhance Learning

🎓 In this episode, we'll take a look at at 2017 ballet study which suggests that the simple element of choice could dramatically enhance learning outcomes.🧠 Discover:- Why giving students control over their learning process leads to improved performance- How autonomy boosts confidence and happiness in learners🚀 Whether you're an educator, parent, or lifelong learner, this episode will give you some ideas on how to tweak your approach to teaching and learning. Get the full article and all the nerdy details: <a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/giving-students-choices-can-dramatically-improve-learning/'>Why Giving Students Choices Could Dramatically Enhance Learning</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

06 Oct 2024

07 MINS

07:17

06 Oct 2024

#346

What Are Audition Committees Really Listening For?

Ever wish you could be psychic for a moment and find out what audition committees are thinking about your performance?Where they focused more on the technical aspects of your playing? The musical aspects of your playing? Or something else entirely?A 2022 study (Kegelaers et al.) took a look at feedback provided by members of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra to participants in their academy program in a series of mock auditions, and categorized these comments into 14 categories and 3 main themes.The results were probably not what the academy fellows were expecting!Get all the nerdy details here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/what-are-audition-committees-really-listening-for/'>What Are Audition Committees Really Listening For?</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

29 Sep 2024

07 MINS

07:49

29 Sep 2024

#345

The Best Time to Exercise for Maximizing Practice Gains

Research suggests that a short bout of exercise could enhance the effectiveness of your practice, by boosting encoding and memory consolidation.But...if you were going to try this, when should you exercise? Before practicing? After practicing? For how long? At what level of intensity?A 2023 study provides some answers!Click through for all the nerdy details and references:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/the-best-time-to-exercise-for-maximizing-practice-gains/'>The Best Time to Exercise for Maximizing Practice Gains</a>(Oh - and if you’ve settled into a rather sedentary lifestyle in recent years and haven’t exercised in a while, do remember to consult with your physician before jumping into any sort of vigorous high-intensity exercise all of a sudden!) * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

22 Sep 2024

07 MINS

07:44

22 Sep 2024

#344

How Important Is It Really to Practice Every Day?

Let's say you had only 60 minutes to practice in the next week. Would it be better to do 60 minutes all in one day? Or 10 minutes per day for six days?Would it make any difference at all?Teachers often tell us to space our practice out, instead of cramming, but how much of a difference does it really make? Two Brazilian studies provide some answers!Get all the nerdy details (and 500+ other practice tips) right here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/how-important-is-it-really-to-practice-every-day/?source=buzzsprout'>How Important Is It Really to Practice Every Day?</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

15 Sep 2024

07 MINS

07:45

15 Sep 2024

#343

Improve Coordination With Opposite-Side Practice

Ever find yourself stumped by a tricky passage, where your fingers seem to be a little awkward and uncoordinated and they just don't do what they're supposed to do?Maybe you tried slowing things down, or practicing with note groupings or rhythms, or doing your darnedest to identify any hints of hidden tension that might be getting in the way. All of which are excellent things to try, of course - but did you ever try practicing that passage with your other hand?If you have, you know that this is often surprisingly helpful. And if you haven't, I think you'll enjoy adding this new tool to your toolkit. Either way, I think you'll be intrigued to learn more of the how's and why's about this phenomenon, known as bilateral transfer.Get all the nerdy details right here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/improve-coordination-with-opposite-side-practice/'>Improve Coordination With Opposite-Side Practice</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

08 Sep 2024

10 MINS

10:43

08 Sep 2024

#342

Nathan Cole: Lessons From 20 Years of Concertmaster Auditions

Have you ever wondered...how to develop true confidence in yourself and your abilities amidst setbacks? What the right mindset is for auditions? How much of your expressive playing should be planned out, and how much is instinct? How to recover from very direct, critical audition feedback? And how do you stay in the present moment, instead of stressing out about nerves and all the bad things that could happen when you’re on stage? If you’ve ever struggled with questions like this, I think you’ll find helpful answers in today’s episode with violinist Nathan Cole - who was recently appointed concertmaster of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Nathan shares insights, details, and lessons learned from his 20-year concertmaster audition journey, and also demonstrates an exercise (using an excerpt from Brahms’s 4th Symphony) that will help you form clearer musical intentions and play more expressively no matter what music you’re working on - especially in passages where you’re not quite sure what to do. Get a transcript, show notes, and all the other nerdy details at:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/nathan-cole-lessons-from-20-years-of-concertmaster-auditions'>Nathan Cole: Lessons From 20 Years of Concertmaster Auditions</a>====You can connect with Nathan and get tons more insights, tips, and technical advice at: ---Web: <a href='https://natesviolin.com/'>natesviolin.com</a> Nathan will also be teaching a live, 4-day, guided (and free) practice workshop on the Scheherazade solos from September 19-22, 2024 (at 4pm Eastern). Whether you’re aspiring to take concertmaster auditions yourself, or simply want to learn some of Nathan practice techniques and strategies for better intonation, sound, and expressive clarity that you can apply to other music that you’re working on, this will be a great way to jumpstart your fall practice with some new tools. ---Sign up for Violin Hero: Scheherazade: <a href='https://natesviolin.ac-page.com/violin-hero-nc'>https://natesviolin.ac-page.com/violin-hero-nc</a> You can also study with Nathan through his online group learning program - Daily Virtuoso - where each quarter, he leads an in-depth study of a new set of masterworks from the repertoire. You’ll learn how to approach both the technical and musical challenges in each piece through live calls, practice assignments, and video lessons, alongside a supportive community of fellow learners. ---Join Daily Virtuoso: <a href='https://natesviolin.com/daily-virtuoso/'>https://natesviolin.com/daily-virtuoso/</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

01 Sep 2024

55 MINS

55:25

01 Sep 2024

#341

An Ironic Strategy to Stay Calmer and Avoid Rushing on Performance Days

Whether it's picking a tempo that's too fast, or rushing a shift, it's easy for things to feel sped up on concert days when the adrenaline kicks in, and the butterflies are fluttering about.Is there any way to be a little more centered on stage, and feel more at ease? Rather than hurried and rushed?Today's studies provide a few clues about what we can do in advance, to slow things down and be less antsy on performance days, starting from the time we wake up, through our last moments backstage before it's time to play.Get all the nerdy details here:<a href='https://bulletproofmusician.com/a-simple-but-ironic-strategy-to-reduce-audition-day-restlessness/'>An Ironic Strategy to Stay Calmer and Avoid Rushing on Performance Days</a> * * *Have you been feeling stuck in the practice room, like your progress has plateaued? Or maybe performance anxiety continues to sneak up on you, even when you know you’ve prepared as much as you possibly could - for performances, auditions, or even lessons?If you’ve been wanting to experience more satisfaction and progress in the practice room, and play more like yourself on stage, I’ll be teaching a live online, 4-week class addressing these frustrating - but solvable - challenges starting February 2, 2025.In this class, we’ll explore four key skill areas—effective practice, managing anxiety, enhancing focus, and building confidence. Through weekly Zoom sessions, we’ll work on practical, research-based exercises as a group. And to help these skills become lasting habits, you’ll get bite-sized practice challenges to gently weave into your daily routine, supported by a global community of practice buddies.Registration is open now through Sunday, January 26thOver 2000 musicians, educators, and learners of all ages have already gone through the course. You can read their stories and sign up to join Cohort 21 at: <a href='https://members.bulletproofmusician.com/edu/performance-psychology-essentials/'>bulletproofmusician.com/essentials</a> ... Read more

25 Aug 2024

08 MINS

08:32

25 Aug 2024