One topic that always seems to make its way into any musical discussion is
the overall concept of Music Theory. Some believe that such knowledge is
unnecessary and hinders the musician's creative process while others
believe that it should be used as a "stepping stone" in building your own
musical vocabulary. I am a firm believer with respect to using theory in
enhancing not only your own music vocabulary but also your own particular
music style. With at least some form of schooling, it will only help to
broaden your musical awareness, experience, expertise and the like. Without any knowledge of such theory, you are only limiting yourself as to
what you are capable of, thereby diminishing your musical promise. It is
only to your benefit to go out and buy some music books, take some lessons
and even attend the clinics of fellow musicians to help you along your
way.
While becoming involved in this learning process, you will gather more
playing opportunities, meet new people, diversify yourself and find out
more about your instrument (which has proven to be the case or else you
would not be exploring this particular aspect of the web). From
experience, I can tell you that people are able to obtain a greater sense
of the whole music experience by letting others influence them. In doing
so, the student can develop a feel for the different types of music that
he/she has yet to hear and they may even learn a few things along the way.
On the other hand, those who choose to go the other route and decide to
practice on their own may not be reaching their fullest potential. They
are not exposed to the different music genres that others have become
accustomed to. Also, learning through books is a good way to learn... up
to a point. A book cannot give you feedback as to what you're doing wrong,
a book cannot adjust to your style of learning and a book probably cannot
motivate you the way an adequate instructor can. Although there is a
certain sense of pride that comes with being "self-taught," in today's
music industry it is getting harder and harder to keep up with those
players who have been properly trained.
Lastly, there is nothing wrong with choosing to opt out of learning Music
Theory or receiving formal training. Music is not a contest nor is it
meant to be a chore. Many have come to a point where having demanding
instructors cause them to lose the excitement of playing music; many have
also become pre-programmed and no longer feel the music but rather lock
themselves into patterns, scales, chord changes, etc. Music is meant to be
inspiring, entertaining and most importantly, enjoyable. Keep it
that way.
Next
Lesson:
Six Degrees of Separation
To learn more about
Patrick DeCoste, visit his website
at
http://www.decosteonline.com/
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