August 19, 2005 at 10:33 PM

I am not a good violinist.
I CANNOT motivate myself to practice without my teacher around.
I'm going to *really* try, starting this monday, cause I MUST learn this.
I think part of it is that I have nothing to work for.
When I'm learning a solo piece, I am working towards either a concert or the praise of my teacher.
When I'm working on a duet or chamber music, I'm motivated by what everyone else will think.
In orchestra, I'm motivated by what chair I'll get.
But now...I just have nothing to work for.
I can't wait for orchestra and all that to start!

From Kerah Williams
Posted on August 19, 2005 at 10:44 PM

Hi Natasha,

I know how you feel. It's the end of the summer, some teachers are still out of town, it's hot, and everyone wants to just enjoy the last bit of the summer. That said, you do have to practice. : )
What do you mean, you have nothing to work for? You can always improve. Tone and intonation and all those techniques will help in orchestra auditions, competitions, etc. you should ALWAYS be improving. I just got some work done on my violin, and I can really tell a difference. It has motivated me to practice. I know you don't want to send your precious out of town, but if there's anyone in town you might get it looked at if you suspect anything's wrong. The smallest changes can make a huge difference, especially on a violin.
I agree with what Sydney said about imagining all the competition working their butts off, which may very well be true. Hang in there, and don't give up!

From Sydney Menees
Posted on August 20, 2005 at 12:08 AM

Ker's here!!!
Anyway, Knot I was going through the same thing and I (like I said before) see others working towards solo opportunities and fame. Good for them, but do you want them to leave you in the dust??? You need to work towards blowing the competition away when trying out for orchestra chairs, there maybe a new 11-year-old that practices 7 hours a day! Also try competing with youself. If you play something not as good as you think you can, say "Heh, I can do better than THAT!" What I also do a lot is pretend like someone you would like to impress is watching you...say Joshua Bell. That usually brings out the best in me! Let me know if any of these weird (but helpful) suggestions work for you. Good luck!

From Natasha Marsalli
Posted on August 28, 2005 at 8:15 PM

Actually, we DO have an 11 year old that practices seven hours a day.

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August 19, 2005 at 10:33 PM

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