Self Control and Instrumental Practice: Why Musicians Excel

Often, the assumption is that people who play instruments possess a great deal of self control. This article aims to explore the relationship between musical practice and self control, addressing common misconceptions and offering insights into why musicians might appearing to have enhanced self control during challenging times.

Challenges in Musical Practice and Self Control

Learning a new musical piece is inherently challenging. When faced with complex or unfamiliar sections, musicians must overcome the urge to procrastinate. This is where self control comes into play. It is not uncommon to feel frustrated and tempted to give up, but the determination to continue practicing is a testament to one's self control.

The process of memorizing music requires an even greater level of self discipline. The temptation to open the music stand and peek at the notes is strong, but skilled musicians resist this urge. Instead, they rely on memory and dedication, forcing themselves to sit through sections they find particularly challenging until they can perform the piece flawlessly.

Continuous Practice Despite Frustration

Performing through frustrating sections of a piece often involves repetitive practice, even when it feels repetitive and tedious. For instance, when a particular section of a piece is technically difficult, musicians may be required to play that section a thousand times over. This unwavering commitment to continuous practice underscores the high levels of self control demanded by musical discipline.

From a psychological standpoint, the need to maintain focus and resist distractions is crucial. In the midst of frustration, musicians must maintain a semblance of calm and endurance. This self control helps them push past the discomfort and reach their goals, making them seem more disciplined in the process.

Common Misconceptions about Musical Discipline

The assumption that musicians are naturally more self controlled is misguided. Just like in any other field, not all musicians are equally disciplined. Some may excel in this area, while others may struggle. Obsession is often mistaken for self control, but the two are distinct. A musician's obsession with their craft can drive them to push through difficult moments, yet this does not necessarily equate to enhanced self control in all aspects of life.

High level musicians are driven by their passion and dedication to perfecting their craft. This intense focus can lead to impressive feats of perseverance and discipline, but it is not a universal trait among all musicians. What it does highlight, however, is the power of self control in achieving excellence in a particular field.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while musicians demonstrate remarkable levels of self control during the rigorous practice of their craft, attributing this self control to a universal trait among all musicians is a misconception. Musicians must assert self control daily to overcome the obstacles of learning and performing music, which can indeed make them appear more disciplined. However, this self control is specific to the arena of musical practice and should not be generalized to all areas of their lives.