Like I mentioned in my post a few days ago about optimizing your practice sessions by using ship dates, the All-District auditions for Kentucky are happening over the next couple of weeks, with lots of playing tests and chair auditions occurring around the same time (and usually on the same music). Right after Thanksgiving, those students that played well enough will also have their All-State auditions.

Needless to say, lots of students are feeling the pressure both in lessons, sectionals and in their own practice.

That makes the Bulletproof Musician’s latest article “5 Ways to Prevent ‘Rage Quitting’ On Discouraging Practice Days” especially good reading (during practice breaks).

Taking some cues from video game designers (who are generally good at ramping up the difficulty in a methodical and subtle way), these five tactics are applicable across all levels, instruments, and repertoire.

As someone who has struggled with rage quitting during practice, I can attest to the importance of staying mentally focused and emotionally detached while practicing. Getting angry only adds negatives to your playing and practice – more tension, less ability to problem solve, less confidence, etc.

If you find yourself getting frustrated during practice sessions, check out the whole list over at the Bulletproof Musician.

Bonus:

As my contribution to #5 on the list, I present Top Gear’s “review” of the fabled British 3-wheeled car, the Reliant Robin: