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How do you get better at your instrument?

Many performers struggle to identify exactly what they need to do to improve their playing of an instrument.

Technical skill

Technical skill is the ability to play the notes of your chosen piece. When you choose your performance pieces, make sure that the technical skills required are comfortably within your abilities. If you are playing something you struggle with, you will not be able to spend time on other elements such as expression and style.

Expressive control

Expressive control is your ability to understand the music and communicate this to others through your performance. You will be able to demonstrate your skill through shaping phrases and playing the dynamics, tempo and articulation indicated by the composer. To achieve this, you should be able to play the technical elements of your piece confidently.

Stylistic awareness

When you are playing a piece, it is important that you understand the style of it. Baroque and Classical pieces have conventions relating to specific articulations. If you are playing something in a jazz style, you may be required to swing the quavers. If you have an instrumental teacher, they will help you shape your performance to make it as musical as possible.

Broader skills

• Internal pulse. As well as playing the correct rhythms, can you play in time with other people? If you are playing by yourself, are you able to maintain a regular pulse?
• Ability to work with others. A good rehearsal process is important for a good performance. If you are performing with others, are you able to rehearse your pieces effectively? Getting from start to finish is only the beginning of the process.
• Improvisation. If you are going to include this in your performance, make it clear what your stimulus is and make sure your improvisation is shaped appropriately.