Getting Better All the Time

I've taught a lot of adults at night school, and I've found that keeping a group of tired, often distracted people sufficiently motivated is a critical part of the job. Motivated students will burrow into their assignments and apply themselves with enthusiasm even at the end of a challenging day. To keep students engaged, they need to be able to see the value in what they're working on, and they must also enjoy the process at least somewhat. In short, we need 'buy-in' and a bit of fun.

I'm prompted to muse upon this having recently read a report on the high drop-out rate among adult music students. The authors of the report cited work schedules and family as the main impediments to committing to a course of study, but motivation is also a key factor.

Learning is something we should be doing all the time. It makes us smarter and more well-rounded, and that makes us more valuable to employers and others. Plus there are other rewards to continuous learning. For example, it keeps your brain from turning to porridge.

So how do you fit music lessons and practice time into your already unmanageable grown-up or high school schedule?

Decide to Make The Time
If you can't manage to regularly set aside time to study and practice, then learning to play is not a personal goal but a 'maybe someday' fantasy. Even 5 minutes a day trumps nothing at all. I think of practicing as my personal time -- my meditation time -- and I always look forward to it.

Find A Situation That Engages You
I recommend that you find an effective teacher, someone you can relate to and whose musical approach is in tune with yours. And someone to whom you are accountable. When looking for a teacher, don't be impressed or put off by surroundings or personalities. I've had great lessons in unfinished basements and I've had lousy lessons from A-list players.

Set Sensible Goals
A good teacher will help you with this as a matter of course. A teacher will also know where you need to go and how to help you get you there.

Join A Band
You can only get so far in the practice room. Aside from a chance to apply all those lovely new drumming skills, playing music with other people is a great motivator as it gives you something to work toward. Even a couple of hours once a month will reap meaningful rewards.

Above All, Have Fun
This, in my opinion, is educational goal #1 and the best motivator I know of.

For more on practicing and setting goals, see How To Practice.