<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" xmlns:georss="http://www.georss.org/georss" xmlns:geo="http://www.w3.org/2003/01/geo/wgs84_pos#" > <channel> <title>Self improvement – Guitar Kitchen</title> <atom:link href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/category/self-improvement/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com</link> <description>Music, Life and Ideas</description> <lastBuildDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2024 03:40:31 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1</generator> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">109302794</site> <item> <title>Football/Soccer Fitness for Older Athletes</title> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/ideas-for-football-soccer-fitness-for-older-athletes/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[bluegreenguitar]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 20 Dec 2022 18:07:38 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Exercising]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self improvement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fitness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[football]]></category> <category><![CDATA[soccer]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wellness]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.guitarkitchen.com/?p=6449</guid> <description><![CDATA[The post encourages soccer enthusiasts of all ages to enhance their fitness by starting from the feet up, focusing on building a strong base for better play into their 40s and 50s. It cites top players who excel in their mid-30s as inspiration and emphasizes the importance of proper training, conditioning, and recovery, quoting resources like "Built from Broken." Key recommendations include prehab exercises for common injuries, stability movements, mobility work, yoga, and ensuring good sleep and nutrition. Always seek medical advice before starting new exercises.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Please check out some great ways (at any age really) to <strong>improve/maintain/cultivate your overall fitness</strong>, and therefore your fitness for soccer/football. </p> <p>These are some ideas I’ve been using for a long time, as well as some newer ideas I have more recently discovered.</p> <p>(I’ll be updating this over time. But hope you enjoy!)</p> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote"><blockquote><p>The basic idea/concept – start from your feet up. Build (and/or rebuild) your base. Then go from there.</p></blockquote></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Inspiration</h2> <p>Look at all the top players that are in the their mid 30s. </p> <p>I think this is unprecedented. My conclusion – that many more players are going to be performing at a high level for another 5 more years than they used to. </p> <p>And therefore more amateur players will extend their playing years as well. </p> <p><strong>And since most amateur players don’t every realize their peak, they can still play for fun way past their mid-30s, probably into their 40s and 50s, with proper application of recovery, training, conditioning, etc. </strong> </p> <p>Some guys already play into their 60s, though I think they are much more of a rare breed (but best wishes to them!)</p> <p>It wouldn’t be the first time: look at <strong>Pele</strong>, <strong>Maldini</strong>, <strong>Roger Milla</strong>. </p> <p>It’s been done before. But now the collective society is realizing that it’s possible to play top level soccer another 5 years with proper prehab/corrective exercises, etc. Consider:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Messi</strong></li> <li><strong>Cristiano Ronaldo</strong></li> <li><strong>Pepe</strong> (from Portugal)</li> <li><strong>Modric</strong></li> <li><strong>Benzema</strong></li> </ul> <p>Some of the best players right now are in the their mid-30s. Obviously, they won’t always be the best, but the take-away:</p> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote"><blockquote><p>Amateur soccer-lovers – it’s possible to play well into your 40s and 50s with proper training, conditioning, recovery and knowledge!</p><cite>If Messi is the best player at 35, most people (with proper preparation) in their 40s and beyond can enjoy a good game of pickup! (imho)</cite></blockquote></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Disclaimer</h2> <p><em>Always remember to consult with the proper medical professionals before starting a new exercise program!</em></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Great Resources</h2> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Built from Broken</h3> <p>What a great book! This book has probably answered most of my training/prehab/corrective exercise questions! </p> <p>I highly recommend this to an athlete who need</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://saltwrap.com/pages/built-from-broken/" target="_blank">Author’s website – Built from Broken</a></li> </ul> <iframe sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" style="width:120px;height:240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=guitkitc-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=1735728500&asins=1735728500&linkId=26c91a51ecc73ec265e741c7ad45168a&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" frameborder="0"></iframe> <p><em>The link to Amazon is an affiliate link, so GuitarKitchen would earn a commision.</em></p> <p><strong>One of my top favourite recommended books!</strong></p> <p>You can sign up and get the downloadable workout plans, too:</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"> <p>In the original draft of the book, I included a complete set of instructions on how to modulate intensity during each workout. Ultimately, I decided this was an unnecessary level of detail and removed the section. However, managing intensity will be a crucial factor for both making strength progress and staying healthy.</p> <p>Generally, complete novices (no training experience) will benefit from a little nudging until they get used to the discomfort that comes with high-intensity exercise.</p> <p>But both intermediate and advanced trainees benefit from the opposite approach.</p> <p>That is, being coached to NOT burn themselves out on every set and every exercise.</p> <cite>Scott </cite></blockquote> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"> <p>Get <strong>Built from Broken</strong> from:</p> <p><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/built-from-broken-scott-h-hogan/1139425825" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a></p> <p><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Built-from-Broken-A-Science-Based-Guide-to-Healing-Painful-Joints-Preventing-Injuries-and-Rebuilding-Your-Body-Paperback-9781735728506/878379661" target="_blank">Walmart</a></p> <p>Available worldwide:</p> <p>Get a paperback book (English version) of <strong>Built from Broken</strong> shipped worldwide by purchasing from <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.bookdepository.com/Built-from-Broken-Scott-H-Hogan/9781735728506" target="_blank">Book Depository</a>.</p> </blockquote> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Yoga</h3> <p>Yoga, especially hot yoga is a great way to improve stability, mobility and over all well-being. While theirs tons of ways to achieve this things, yoga is probably the easiest for the most people (other than <strong>pilates</strong>). </p> <p>Yoga has been designed to help the most people maintain and cultivate general stability, mobility, flexibility and strength. Most other programs just use a slightly different version of the same exercises.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">KneesOverToes guy</h3> <p>What an inspiring guy – he got me back into doing the walking backwards and the tib bar – I used to do that stuff back in the day without realizing how great it was. But I forgot. </p> <p>And he also added the knees over toes split squat, something that for many decades had been coached as a bad thing. </p> <p>Done correctly with proper progression, the ATG split-squat can improve range of motion and a lot of other good stuff!</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://kneesovertoesguy.medium.com/" target="_blank">Knees Over Toes/Athletic Truth Group Blog</a></li> <li><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://app.atgonlinecoaching.com/" target="_blank">Online Coaching from Knees over Toes</a></li> <li><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://jumpstronger.com/knees-over-toes-exercises/" target="_blank">https://jumpstronger.com/knees-over-toes-exercises/</a></li> <li><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://healthclubfinder.org/knees-over-toes/" target="_blank">6 Knees over Toes Exercises</a></li> </ul> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/ideas-for-football-soccer-fitness-for-older-athletes/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2F4nhuBzBjWzQ%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/ideas-for-football-soccer-fitness-for-older-athletes/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FjIngqODw8x4%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/ideas-for-football-soccer-fitness-for-older-athletes/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2F1a6nfG69c9g%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Build and rebuild from the ground up!</h2> <p>Basically what Ben from Knees over Toes talks about. </p> <p>He doesn’t talk about feet too much, but that would the true base.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Focus on your major areas/joints from the floor up!</h3> <ol class="wp-block-list"> <li>Feet/Ankles (Ankle Joint)</li> <li>Ankles/Calves/Shins (Ankle Joint)</li> <li>Knees/Legs (Knee Joint)</li> <li>Hips/Lower Back (Hip Joint)</li> <li>Core/Back/Hips (Spine)</li> <li>Shoulders/Chest/Upper Back (Shoulder Joint)</li> <li>Neck/Shoulders (Neck/Head Joint)</li> <li>Face/Neck (Jaw joint, etc)</li> </ol> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prehab/Rehab/Injury Recovery Priorities</h3> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Stability (Static wall sit, bridge, plank, etc)</li> <li>Movement Mechanics (fix/improve/maintain) movement mechanics</li> <li>Mobility</li> <li>Strength</li> <li>Endurance</li> </ul> <p>From <strong><em>Built from Broken</em></strong>.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fix/Prehab the Big 3</h3> <p>These, according to <em>Built from Broken,</em> are the major common challenge areas for athletes. </p> <p>Therefore, it makes sense to try to mitigate issues in advance whenever possible!</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Knee issues</li> <li>Back issues</li> <li>Shoulder issues</li> </ul> <p>For soccer players – also, ankle issues.</p> <p>From <strong><em>Built from Broken</em></strong>.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Feet</h3> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Foot Rubz</h3> <iframe sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" style="width:120px;height:240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=guitkitc-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00BXAM6S0&asins=B00BXAM6S0&linkId=fd23cb884b9370cafc9bb2d4865dc108&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true"></iframe> <p>Please read <a href="https://www.bigbluewaves.net/foot-rubz-review/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">my review on BigBlueWaves.net</a>.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Strengthen your arches</h3> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Short Foot exercises (to raise arches)</h4> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/ideas-for-football-soccer-fitness-for-older-athletes/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2F9puHjMvnjdM%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <p>Mobility Exercises</p> <p>Balance exercises</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Strengthen your Calves and Shins</h3> <p>Get a Tibialis Bar to Strengthen your Shins</p> <p>Use a resistance band for ankle curls and balance work</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Knees and Upper Legs</h3> <p>Get a Massage Gun</p> <p>Foam Roll your Quads</p> <p>Check out Knees over Toes Guys</p> <p>Do Yoga and other mobility work</p> <p>Do Hot Yoga</p> <p>Get enough sleep</p> <p>Hydrate</p> <p>Glutes and Lower Back</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Posterior Chain</h3> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shoulders, Neck</h3> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Recovery is Key!</h2> <p>Daily Stability and Mobility</p> <p>Yoga</p> <p>Foam Rolling</p> <p>Massage Gun</p> <p>Massage Therapy</p> <p>Good Sleep</p> <p>Hydration</p> <p>Proper diet and nutrition</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Questions, Comments, Suggestions?</h2> <p>Please let me know any ideas you have! I am still learning myself!</p> <p>Best wishes everyone!</p> ]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">6449</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Ideas about Generational Wealth</title> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/ideas-about-generational-wealth/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[bluegreenguitar]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 12 Apr 2022 14:46:01 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Financial/Economics]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self improvement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[abundance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mindset]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wealth]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.guitarkitchen.com/?p=6416</guid> <description><![CDATA[In response to a Financial Samurai article on ethical wealth accumulation, the blog post discusses the challenges of wealth and parenting. The author advocates for moderation and imparting an abundance mindset to children, arguing against zero-sum thinking. Highlighting examples of system manipulation, from Tim Ferriss's kickboxing championship to the Subaru Brat, the post underscores the idea that wealth and skills are abundant, not exclusive. The writer concludes promoting the generational transfer of wealth in various forms, beyond just the financial aspect.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><em>This blog post is actually a response to an article at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.financialsamurai.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Financial Samurai</strong></a> – <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.financialsamurai.com/gaming-the-system-for-more-wealth/" target="_blank">Gaming The System For More Wealth Is Becoming More Acceptable</a></em>. I think FS is one my favorite websites dedicated to learning more about economics, investing, wealth-creation, etc. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Abundance Mindset and the Next Generation</h2> <p>In general, I believe (imho) that raising kids can be very challenging, and I am far from an expert in the matter. But, I’m guessing that like many things moderation is probably a good first bet. </p> <p>The basic underlying question posed is: How does a wealthy family go about raising their children to be happy and successful, without the kids becoming spoiled, lazy, etc? I don’t know the answer, am not an expert, etc. But besides moderation, I also think it’s important to pass on skills and an <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/abundance-and-zero-sum-mindsets-cognitive-bias-distortion/" data-type="post" data-id="2475">abundance mindset</a>. </p> <p>In terms of “money” and wealth, I believe (imho) that, for most people in the modern world, wealth is (in the longer term, for most people) an abundant concept and potential possibility. </p> <p>If someone starts to behave based on zero-sum thinking (whether they have zero or 1 billion in the bank), they may have a situation for reconsidering shifting to a more abundance-based mindset. Easier said than done, for sure – but I believe (on the balance of probabilities) that using an abundance mindset (and finding the <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/the-3rd-way-and-abundance/" data-type="post" data-id="2049">“third way”</a>) will generally produce more favorable results in the longer-term.</p> <p>In any case best wishes! Here’s the little response I had (also available in the <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.financialsamurai.com/gaming-the-system-for-more-wealth/#comments" target="_blank">comments section of the original article</a>). <em>The parts in italics (below) are added commentary, etc.</em></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/lead-with-heart-verbal-cues-to-improve-guitar-posture/" data-type="post" data-id="4163">Lead with Heart! Verbal Cues to Improve (Guitar) Posture</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/the-heros-journeys-podcast-7/" data-type="post" data-id="6149">The Heroβs Journey(s) β Podcast #7</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/social-discourse-aligned-with-truth-love-and-power/" data-type="post" data-id="3687">Truth Love and Power, and Social Discourse</a></li></ul> <p>————————</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Response to Gaming the System</h2> <p>Lots of good food for thought in this article- but in terms of sports it reminds of how <strong>Tim Ferriss </strong>won the <strong>Chinese National Kickboxing Championship</strong>. While he technically followed the rules, many people (including himself perhaps) would argue that he “gamed the system” – or was it a life hack?</p> <p>While many within the kickboxing world might view this in a negative light – it still has some humorous aspect to it as well.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“The judges reportedly werenβt happy about the outcome, but their hands were tied, and also they were probably frightened that Ferris might shove them.”</p></blockquote> <p>Also, gaming the system brought us the <strong>Subaru Brat</strong> (avoiding the <a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/chicken-tax-4159747" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">70s “chicken tax”</a>) haha <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> Plus things like how <strong>Converse All-Stars </strong>slippers – I mean sneakers haha.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Links to Examples of Gaming the System</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.themodernrogue.com/articles/2018/2/15/5-people-who-won-big-by-manipulating-the-system" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.themodernrogue.com/articles/2018/2/15/5-people-who-won-big-by-manipulating-the-system </a></li><li><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelschein/2019/01/17/tim-ferriss-is-everything-thats-wrong-with-the-modern-world-and-why-you-should-follow-his-lead/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelschein/2019/01/17/tim-ferriss-is-everything-thats-wrong-with-the-modern-world-and-why-you-should-follow-his-lead/</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/heres-why-converse-sneakers-have-fuzzy-bottoms-2015-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.businessinsider.com/heres-why-converse-sneakers-have-fuzzy-bottoms-2015-8</a></li></ul> <p>This of course (perhaps arguably) differs from how <strong>VW</strong> tweaked their diesel cars to pass emissions test in the US, etc.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Moderation, Abundance and Community</h2> <p>On a more serious note – is any person an island or even an isthmus?</p> <p>My guess would be all things in moderation – most people actually want to work and create – Imho people who don’t want to create/contribute etc actually may have other issues/challenges to overcome – the wealth may just exacerbate the condition in certain ways.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ad Absurdum Arguments</h2> <p><em>While <strong>ad absurdum</strong> is basically a form of <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/abundance-and-zero-sum-mindsets-cognitive-bias-distortion/" data-type="post" data-id="2475">cognitive bias</a>, I think (using adsurdum) also highlights how some arguments might not make sense on a logical level when one starts to implement them in scenarios other than the original scenario.</em></p> <p><em>Rather, they are more general cultural practices that people start to view as a logical sort of way to address a certain challenge – perfectly acceptable, but not (imho) the same as (mostly logical) argument, etc.</em></p> <p>In terms of more “ad absurdum” arguments:</p> <p>Should parents even teach their kids how to speak? What about 2 languages? What about more desirable/employable languages like English? Should all parents not teach their kids English, since that might be gaming the system?</p> <p>Doesn’t learning how to speak English give kids a leg up compared to kids that don’t learn to speak English?</p> <p>What about learning other skills at home that other people may not know/learn from their parents – music, sports, math, history, languages, construction, real estate, etc?</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wealth from the Larger Community</h2> <p>And what about cheap debt (in the US) financed from the “petrodollar”/Fed/deposit insurance/etc? And possibly arbitraged between the interest rate and inflation rate, etc? Should all people in the US not buy houses (and go camping?) since it’s financed via an “unfair” monetary system advantage?</p> <p>Also, as an aside – the only book that I’ve read about how parents should pass generational wealth on to their kids – happened to mention philanthropy as an important aspect – but also happened to be authored by the head of <strong>Ivy League</strong> college philanthropy office <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></p> <p><em>That being said – it still is a great book with a lot of good ideas – it’s just good to also always “Consider the Source”.</em></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Many Forms of Wealth to Give</h2> <p>In terms of passing on wealth to the next generation. I believe everyone should actually try to pass on as much wealth, knowledge, joy, abundance, good experiences, love, etc as possible – to their kids and hopefully other people too! </p> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote"><blockquote><p>Most things in modern life are actually probably more abundant and less a zero-sum game than some might perhaps think.</p><cite>(imho)</cite></blockquote></figure> <p>For example, the number of languages on person speaks (books read, skills mastered, instruments played, etc) doesn’t really affect the number of languages another person speaks, etc.</p> <p>But everything in moderation is also probably a good idea, too.</p> <p>In any case, best wishes to everyone.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">6416</post-id> </item> <item> <title>The Glass is Always Full (Realism vs Optimism vs Pessimism)</title> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/the-glass-is-always-full-realism-vs-optimism-vs-pessimism/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[bluegreenguitar]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2020 16:01:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Good vibes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Music]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self improvement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[philosophy]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.guitarkitchen.com/?p=4008</guid> <description><![CDATA[Here’s a video I made a while ago talking about ways of looking at things (in relation to the glass of water). In any case, best wishes and hope you have a wonderful day! Different ways to perceive a glass (or spoon) The glass is half full of water An optimist It’s a true statement, […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Here’s a video I made a while ago talking about ways of looking at things (in relation to the glass of water). In any case, best wishes and hope you have a wonderful day!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Different ways to perceive a glass (or spoon)</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><em>The glass is half full of water</em><ul><li>An <strong>optimist</strong></li><li>It’s a true statement, but …</li></ul></li><li><em>The glass is half empty</em><ul><li>A <strong>pessimist</strong></li><li>It’s a true statement, too, but …</li></ul></li><li><em>The glass is full</em><ul><li>A <strong>realist</strong></li><li>This is encompasses more of the truth than the other two statements. The glass is (about) half full of water and half full of air.</li></ul></li><li>What <em>one person perceives as a “glass with water” may be completely different than how another person sees the “glass with water”</em><ul><li>A <strong>subjectivist</strong></li><li>This may be true, and can be internally consistent in a philosophical sense, though probably not too practical (plus it sort of gives me a headache haha)</li><li>In some cases, I think it’s good to be able to perceive things in this way – but as an alternate way of seeing things, not as the default way of see things</li><li>Does a person fundamentally think this is an “imaginary” existence or just there’s no way to prove that 2 people actually see (or don’t see) the same thing?</li><li>Again a very interesting idea, but I’m not sure if it has of day-to-day practicality for most people.</li></ul></li><li>The <em>glass is imagined/doesn’t really exist</em>, etc<ul><li>An <strong>existentialist</strong> (?), etc</li><li>This may or may not be true, it’s hard to prove – and doesn’t really affect the present, other than what a person is thinking about the present.</li><li>While potentially internally logically consistent, it doesn’t really change the day-to-day reality of things,</li><li>unless you’re in a movie called the <em>Matrix</em> <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></li><li><em>How does a person know if they are imagining things or just that they are imagining that they are imagining things?</em></li><li>For me, it just (on a day-to-day basis) leads me to accept reality for what it mostly seems to be, unless I first-hand experience a perceivable phenomena that suggests otherwise.</li></ul></li><li>The <em>glass and water and air are really all just the same particles</em><ul><li>This would be called a <strong>physicist</strong> <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></li><li>This is also true, but not really practical for most day-to-day situations unless a person is thinking about particle physics, etc</li></ul></li><li><em>Who really cares, I want to think about something else</em>!<ul><li>A <strong>stubborn, independent thinker </strong>who doesn’t want to be distracted ? hahah</li></ul></li><li><em>Don’t think just Observe. Feel the glass and water and air. Experience the moment!</em><ul><li><strong>People who want to “stay in” the present</strong>. </li><li>Please check out my article on leading with heart</li></ul></li><li><em>The glass and you and the universe are all one</em><ul><li><strong>Zen masters, Yoda,</strong> etc</li><li>Lonnie Liston Smith has a beautiful, great song that talks about this …</li></ul></li><li><em>Dude, that’s super deep bro!</em><ul><li>A <strong>surfer dude</strong> (at least at heart) <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></li></ul></li><li><em>Huh, what was the chord you just played before you started talking about food?</em> <em>Wait it there food – let’s take a quick break ….</em><ul><li>A <strong>musician</strong> hahahah</li></ul></li></ul> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/the-glass-is-always-full-realism-vs-optimism-vs-pessimism/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2Fu2D5eZb6hCc%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <p>For some more ideas about musicality, etc:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/the-3rd-way-and-abundance/" data-type="post" data-id="2049">The 3rd way and abundance</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/truth-love-power-in-music/" data-type="post" data-id="1206">Truth, Love, and Power in Learning Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/kindness-in-learning-music/" data-type="post" data-id="3840">Kindness in Learning Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/positive-self-talk-life-music/" data-type="post" data-id="2165">Positive Self-Talk in Life and Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/health-wealth-and-love-in-music/" data-type="post" data-id="2228">Health, Wealth and Love in Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/daily-ideas-for-living-healthy/" data-type="post" data-id="131">Daily ideas for living healthy</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/abundance-and-zero-sum-mindsets-cognitive-bias-distortion/" data-type="post" data-id="2475">Abundance and Zero-sum Mindsets β How Cognitive Bias and Distortion Affect Our Thinking</a></li></ul> ]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4008</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Lead with Heart! Verbal Cues to Improve (Guitar) Posture</title> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/lead-with-heart-verbal-cues-to-improve-guitar-posture/</link> <comments>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/lead-with-heart-verbal-cues-to-improve-guitar-posture/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[bluegreenguitar]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2020 14:03:50 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Exercising]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Good vibes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Music]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self improvement]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.guitarkitchen.com/?p=4163</guid> <description><![CDATA[Most guitarists (and anyone, really) can immediately improve their posture by "leading with heart". ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <figure class="wp-block-pullquote is-style-default"><blockquote><p>Instead of saying:</p><p>“<em>Roll back your shoulders</em>” or “<em>don’t stick out your head</em>,” </p><p> Try saying:</p><p>“<em>Lead with heart.</em>“</p><cite><strong>Use the verbal cure, “lead with hear” to creating better posture (and music!)</strong></cite></blockquote></figure> <p>Hey everyone! Hope all is well – all the best!</p> <p>Here’s a few ideas that could help improve your posture and guitar playing, mainly “<strong><em>lead with heart</em></strong>.” </p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>My posture when playing guitar definitely has tons of room for improvement. </p><p>I tend to hunch over the guitar. So reminding myself to <strong>lead with heart</strong> usually helps me to improve my posture in general, and while playing guitar. </p></blockquote> <div class="wp-block-image is-style-default"><figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/heart-1213475_640-e1539544452347.jpg" alt="Play music with your heart, too!" class="wp-image-3490"/></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">“<em>Lead With Heart</em>” – A Great Cue for Improved Posture (& Music)</h2> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote is-style-default"><blockquote><p><strong>“<em>Lead with heart</em>” reminds us to actively create good posture. </strong></p><p><strong>(And also to focus our playing on good vibes and consistent groove).</strong></p><cite>In my humble (non-medical) opinion</cite></blockquote></figure> <p><em>Disclaimer – I’m not a medical professional. Please consult with a licensed professional about your specific health issues. The ideas contained in this article (and website) are only (to the best of my ability to communicate) what my own experiences have been and/or theories and ideas I have about stuff. In any case, take care and best wishes!</em></p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">How to Use the Verbal Cue “<em>Lead with Heart</em>“</h3> <p>If you find yourself slumped over when playing the guitar:</p> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Visualize <strong><em>leading your body with your heart</em></strong></li><li>And then, relax your shoulders</li><li><strong><em>Leading with heart</em></strong> looks (on the outside) basically like <strong><em>sticking out your chest</em></strong>, but it’s visualized as “<em>leading with heart</em>“, not “<em>sticking out your chest</em>“<ul><li>Obviously, “<em>leading with heart</em>” needs to be done in moderation. In other words, your chest shouldn’t “absurdly” stick out. Just a slight focus on the heart being more in front so that your body feels more poised and less slouched.</li><li>In many respects, it’s same thing as “<em>sticking out your chest</em>” or “<em>not slouching</em>“, but on a mindset/musical level, it may help you create a more balanced, creative perspective <em>and</em> improve your posture</li></ul></li><li>By “<em>leading with the heart</em>” area more, you’ll simultaneously help to naturally un-slouch your shoulders</li><li>People who find themselves sticking out their head may be manifesting an “overthinking” of the music.<ul><li>By rebalancing towards the heart, a musician can rebalance their body and as well as their approach to music. In other words, the mind and heart of the musician can be more balanced while playing.</li></ul></li></ol> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Why I Think “Leading with Heart” Helps</h3> <p>Remembering to <strong>lead with heart</strong> (aka stick my chest out while bringing my head back in line with the rest of my body) helps me. </p> <p>It’s a great cue to cascade several physical cues for guitar posture. This applies for either sitting or standing. </p> <p>Also, when I lead with my heart, I try to then relax my shoulders. And when I remember to relax my shoulders, I try to relax my face. Then forearms and hands.</p> <p>Again, this might not work for everyone, but for someone like that tends to slump the shoulders, these verbal cues could really help!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Working Out and Stretching Help Posture, Too</h2> <p>Obviously, good posture can be improved in many different ways. Besides consciously using better posture, stretching and working out also generally help most people improve their posture. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Kettlebell Swings Help Posture and Back Strength</h3> <p><strong>And (as a side note) doing kettlebell swings – I’ve started doing kettlebell swings, I really can feel the difference in my posture and back.</strong> </p> <p>My back/posterior chain feels a lot better. My back isn’t sore. I like doing yoga, which helps too. But I think kettlebells may even help more – up to a certain point – to become really flexible yoga does help!</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Yoga and/or Stretching Help Posture</h3> <p>I’d like to mention that I’ve also had a lot of good results with doing a little bit of yoga and stretching as well.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/IMG_5041-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-4382" width="310" height="413" srcset="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/IMG_5041-1.png 480w, https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/IMG_5041-1-225x300.png 225w" sizes="(max-width: 310px) 100vw, 310px" /><figcaption>Ladybug on a yoga mat</figcaption></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cascading Verbal Cues for Improved Posture</h2> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Lead with Heart</li><li>Relax my Shoulders</li><li>Breathe/Sing Along</li><li>Relax my Face</li><li>Relax My Arms and Hands</li><li>Grip Ground with Feet (if Standing)</li><li>Tighten Tush (if Sitting)</li></ol> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lead With Heart!</h3> <p>Whenever I feel my shoulders slumping (forward), I tend to:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Ignore the back posture and keep on doing what I am doing</li><li>Stretch and reset</li><li>Try to roll my shoulders back so that I am standing/sitting up straight</li><li>Or say to myself – “<strong>Lead with Heart</strong>“</li></ul> <p>By leading with heart aka sticking my chest out (so that my posture is more upright, not so that my chest is “absurdly” stuck out like a cartoon), I refocus my energy/mind towards my heart chest and away from my head. It’s almost like “getting out of my head”. </p> <p>You could look at leading with heart as focusing on the heart chakra. Or as sticking your chest out, etc. </p> <p>But I like the phrase, lead with heart. It also helps remind me to focus on the feel and intention of what I am doing and maybe not to be so anxious/over-focused on the mental details. Again, this balance between mind and heart is probably different for each person, so this may be something that only some people would want to focus on (leading with heart).</p> <p>Other people will focus on different chakra/body areas (and/or what they represent on a “practical” basis). And all are good. But sometimes it’s about balance. So for someone that tends to lead (in an unbalanced way – very subjective – though good posture is more objective) with the head (in this case literally leads with the head – aka sticks their head out too much), focusing on leading with the heart may be a great verbal cue to help with better posture and overall balance!</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Relax the Shoulders</h3> <p>Even after I am thinking about <strong><em>leading with heart</em></strong>, I tend to notice that my shoulders are scrunched up. So the next thing I try to do (while still leading with heart aka sticking my chest out so my posture improves) is to relax my shoulders.</p> <p>The comibination of a balanced head and chest with relaxed shoulders really helps me to play in a more relaxed manner. And do a lot of other stuff too, like walking, sitting, typing, etc.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Breathe (and/or Sing)</h3> <p>The third step in the cascade of verbal cues after the chest and shoulders (seems to me) to be breathing fuller and more consistently.</p> <p>Part of tensing up (for me) usually involves subconsciously holding my breath and/or breathing in a tighter manner.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>One verbal cue to breath (if you’re not already singing) is to <strong>think of the exhale as breathing out the tension</strong>. And <strong><em>the inhale as breathing in vitality and good energy.</em></strong></p></blockquote> <p>Playing music while breathing deeper really helps the music and also helps me to relax.</p> <p>By focusing on breathing, I can conciously connect the flow of the groove and melody to the breath.</p> <p>Also, I can just sing along to the notes I am playing, though I guess for this to work well, I would still need to focus on breathing with the phrasing/structure of the music and relaxing.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="570" height="374" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/great-way-to-learn-musicArtboard-1-e1605284573308.png" alt="Great ways to learn music - learn from the greats, practice makes progress, play what you sing, sing what you play, enjoy the musical journey!" class="wp-image-4331" srcset="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/great-way-to-learn-musicArtboard-1-e1605284573308.png 570w, https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/great-way-to-learn-musicArtboard-1-e1605284573308-300x197.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 570px) 100vw, 570px" /><figcaption><strong><em>Sing what you play | Play what you sing</em></strong> – a great way to incorporate good breath into one’s guitar playing!</figcaption></figure> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Relax the Face</h3> <p>After focusing on my breath, I tend to notice the next steps will usually be to realize my face is too tight. Sometimes I’ll focus on my hands and arms first, but I think that I usually tend to like to relax my facial muscles first.</p> <p>This usually means my jaw, my cheeks and my eye muscles. I’ll generally relax them as I breath out. </p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>Coordinating all relaxation/posture cues while playing music can be challenging. But it’s a great thing to practice a little bit each day! I usually leave this feel better… And you can practice this relaxation/postures without practicing music, too …</p></blockquote> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Relax the Hands and Arms</h3> <p>Next I’ll try to relax my hands and arms.</p> <p>Obviously if one’s hands and arms are too relaxed, then the guitar might just slip away.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>Finding the balancing point of being the most relaxed while you can still play well is a very important challenge to keep practicing. When I do this, I usually find myself playing more legato and with a more consistent groove.</p></blockquote> <p>This can be for any activity, but certainly it does apply to guitar.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If Standing, “<strong><em>Grip the Ground</em></strong>“</h3> <p>If I’m standing, aftering leading with heart and then relaxing my breath and body, I’ll grip the ground with my feet.</p> <p>If I’m barefoot, and/or wearing good shoes, this usually feels good, like I am more connected to the earth. I’ll feel my arches and legs get into better alignment, and I’ll feel like I am standing with even better posture and stronger. </p> <p>This is an important cue for musicians and non-musicians alike, IMHO.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“<strong><em>Grip the Ground</em></strong>” activates the arches and creates usually creates a cascading improvement to posture</p></blockquote> <p>Unlike some of the other cues, I don’t expect to always focus on gripping the ground, it’s just something to do occasionally to reset my posture and connection to the ground.</p> <p>If I am standing up and playing music, “<em>gripping the ground</em>” will usually create more powerful posture. It really does seem to help create a more solid base.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If Sitting, “<em>Tighten the Tush</em>” <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></h3> <p>Tightening the Tush is sort of like gripping “Gripping the Ground”, but for when I am sitting. It completes to the lower part of improving one’s posture. The shoulder and chest usually improve (most of) the upper posture – “<em>tightening the tush</em>” (is sitting) or “<em>gripping the ground</em>” (if standing) improve the lower part.</p> <p>Basically, tightening the tush (to me) means, contracting the Kegel muscle(s), plus the lower abs and a little bit of the glutes.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><em>“<strong>Tightening the Tush</strong>” usually seems to help me sit up straighter, in regards to my lower back.</em></p><p>You don’t have to do it all the time, but it’s good to do sometimes to improve posture.<em> </em></p></blockquote> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Work With the Guitar, Not For It (Ergonomically)</h2> <p>As an aside, I think another verbal cue is “<em>work with the guitar, not for it”.</em> </p> <p>Basically, this means finding the best way for your body to play guitar. In other words, configure and play the guitar so that it best suits your body mechanics. </p> <p>I think a lot of people (myself included) default to adapting their playing posture to the guitar. Of course, this is practical to an extent, but whenever possible, I think it’s always better to find the better posture where you can still play the guitar. This may mean adjusting while you’re playing to play certain notes, then readjusting when playing others, etc.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kettlebells Swings (if it’s okay with your doctor)</h2> <p>I am on a kettlebell kick. But assuming you get the medical go ahead, consider doing some regular kettlebell swings with proper form and kettlebell weight.</p> <p>For me, this kettlebell swings are one of the best practical daily exercises (that I’ve been doing recently) to help my overall ergonomics, posture, strength and flexibility. Of course, only time will tell (I am writing this is in late fall 2020).</p> <p>Moreover, kettlebell swings take up very little room – so they are doable in a lot of different environments and settings – this could be great for anyone – especially musicians.</p> <p>Sometimes, I’ll do a set of 10-40 swings as a practice break – it really helps to balance things out for me! </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Practice Makes Progress!</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1020" height="919" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2.png" alt="from https://wyntonmarsalis.org/news/entry/wynton-marsalis-12-tips-on-how-to-practice-for-musicians-athletes-anyone - 1. seek instruction 2. write out a schedule 3. set goals 4. concentrate 5. relax & practice slowly 6. practice hard things longer 7. practice with expression 8. learn from your mistakes 9. donβt show off 10. think for yourself 11. be optimistic 12. look for connections" class="wp-image-5146" srcset="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2.png 1020w, https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2-300x270.png 300w, https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2-150x135.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px" /><figcaption>from <a href="https://wyntonmarsalis.org/news/entry/wynton-marsalis-12-tips-on-how-to-practice-for-musicians-athletes-anyone" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> Wynton Marsalis</a></figcaption></figure> <p>In any case, I hope these ideas (that I am still practicing and seeking to improve upon) help you, too!</p> <p>Of course, like I said before, always do what’s best for you, please consult with a qualified medical professional, and remember that everyone has different ways of doing things.</p> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote is-style-default"><blockquote><p>Just like anything else, you can practice improving your posture!</p><p>Try making better posture a part of your daily musical practice!</p></blockquote></figure> <p>In any case, best wishes!</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/ideas-for-wellness-and-musicianship/" data-type="post" data-id="3843">Ideas for Wellness and Musicianship</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/12-ideas-for-good-health/" data-type="post" data-id="299">12 ideas for good health (Wellness for everyone including musicians)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/health-wealth-and-love-in-music/" data-type="post" data-id="2228">Health, Wealth and Love in Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/daily-ideas-for-living-healthy/" data-type="post" data-id="131">Daily ideas for living healthy</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/gratefulness-music/" data-type="post" data-id="3898">Practicing Gratefulness (as a musician)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/habit-stacking-music/" data-type="post" data-id="2296">Habit stacking and Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/kindness-in-learning-music/" data-type="post" data-id="3840">Kindness in Learning Music</a></li></ul> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/lead-with-heart-verbal-cues-to-improve-guitar-posture/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>3</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4163</post-id> </item> <item> <title>New Lessons/Ideas: Flamenco Warmup, Jazz Guitar Groove & Great Tunes, Diatonic Chords</title> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/new-lessons-ideas-flamenco-warmup-jazz-guitar-groove-great-tunes-diatonic-chords/</link> <comments>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/new-lessons-ideas-flamenco-warmup-jazz-guitar-groove-great-tunes-diatonic-chords/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[bluegreenguitar]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 07 Nov 2020 17:30:25 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Good vibes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Music]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self improvement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[new guitar lessons]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.guitarkitchen.com/?p=4144</guid> <description><![CDATA[I just published 4 new lessons/ideas that have helped me in learning flamenco guitar, jazz guitar, and how chords and scales relate! I hope they help you too. Please comment &/or let me know if you have any questions, suggestions, comments &/or ideas. Of course if you’re playing lefty, then the right-hand means left-hand – […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>I just published 4 new lessons/ideas that have helped me in learning flamenco guitar, jazz guitar, and how chords and scales relate!</p> <p>I hope they help you too. Please comment &/or <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/help/contact/" data-type="page" data-id="361">let me know</a> if you have any questions, suggestions, comments &/or ideas. </p> <p>Of course if you’re playing lefty, then the right-hand means left-hand – basically whichever is your strumming hand.</p> <p><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/flamenco/flamenco-guitar-warmup-right-strum-hand/" data-type="page" data-id="4029">Flamenco Warmup (for the right-hand)</a>: This is a warmup I try to do most days – it goes through the major right hand strumming techniques (<em><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/flamenco/flamenco-rumba/" data-type="page" data-id="443">rumba</a></em>, <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/flamenco/rasgueados/" data-type="page" data-id="697"><em>rasgueados</em></a>, <em>albanico</em>, <em>azapua</em>) with a diatonic chord progression at a very slow tempo. I like it because it really helps warm up my hands and also improve my right-hand technique – this is definitely a great example of practicing slower being better!</p> <p><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/swing-bop-ragtime-secondline/30-days-to-master-beginning-jazz-guitar-introduction/improve-solos-right-hand-groove-jazz-guitar-version/" data-type="page" data-id="4080">Ideas to improve your Jazz Guitar Groove (right-hand exercises):</a> This goes through some different practice ideas that have helped me to (I hope) improve my groove, both with comping/chords and solos/single-line.</p> <p><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/swing-bop-ragtime-secondline/great-tunes-and-albums-for-learning-about-jazz-guitar/" data-type="page" data-id="4068">Great, Classic Tunes and Albums for Learning Jazz Guitar</a>: An incomplete list, but I am updating (like most things on GK) this when I get the chance. It basically is a bunch of YouTube videos of some of the most classic ‘examples’ of some of the greatest jazz guitarists in a variety of ‘jazz genres’.</p> <p><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/scales/e-major-diatonic-scales-intervals-chords-open-strings-sheet-music-tab/" data-type="page" data-id="4052">Creating Chords from a Diatonic (E major) Scale</a>: This shows how to create some cool triads and chords with an E major scale. It’s especially to show how to create some beautiful open-string chords. It’s basically a companion to the <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/flamenco/flamenco-guitar-warmup-right-strum-hand/" data-type="page" data-id="4029">Flamenco Warm-Up lesson</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/new-lessons-ideas-flamenco-warmup-jazz-guitar-groove-great-tunes-diatonic-chords/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4144</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Singing – What You May Learn as a Guitarist!</title> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/singing-my-learning-experiences-as-a-guitarist/</link> <comments>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/singing-my-learning-experiences-as-a-guitarist/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[bluegreenguitar]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 31 Oct 2020 14:35:29 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Good vibes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Music]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self improvement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Voice]]></category> <category><![CDATA[musicality]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Singing]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.guitarkitchen.com/?p=3987</guid> <description><![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If you want to learn to sing, I say go for it! </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As guitarist, I've learned so much from the process of learning to sing. I'm very much still and beginner, but I can finally usually sing in tune and am now starting to work on better air support (I think that's what it's called).</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>It's been great to sing and play and guitar, plus it's a great way to improve you ear and musicality!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Learning to Sing – How it’s Helped Me & Can Help You, too!</h2> <p>Hey everyone! Hope all is well and best wishes!</p> <p>I’m in the progress of re-editing some older blog posts and articles and lessons here on Guitar Kitchen, and I came across some of blog posts from over 10 years ago where I was writing about how I was learning to sing (mostly in hopes of becoming a better musician.</p> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote is-style-default"><blockquote><p>Learning to sing is one of the best ways to improve your ear and musical memory.</p></blockquote></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="570" height="374" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/great-way-to-learn-musicArtboard-1-e1605284573308.png" alt="Great ways to learn music - learn from the greats, practice makes progress, play what you sing, sing what you play, enjoy the musical journey!" class="wp-image-4331" srcset="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/great-way-to-learn-musicArtboard-1-e1605284573308.png 570w, https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/great-way-to-learn-musicArtboard-1-e1605284573308-300x197.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 570px) 100vw, 570px" /></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">My Learning Experiences with Singing</h2> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">First Blog Post about Singing</h3> <p>I came across this blog post from 2009 about <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/learning-to-sing/" data-type="post" data-id="68">wanting to learn to sing</a>:</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><em>For folks that already play an instrument and want to sing</em>:</p><p><em>Sometimes I really wish I could sing! I know I donβt have the greatest voice but thereβs something really nice about playing a song and singing along to the chords. Or being able to sing the song you wrote. Iβm not saying to have the most amazing voice but to be able to sing in decent pitch and convey the feeling of the song. I suppose thatβs easier said than done.</em></p></blockquote> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Original Singing Goals from 2010</h3> <p>I also came across another <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/singing-success-part-1-learning-to-sing/">article from 2010 about a singing course</a>. (I need to figure out how to show the date of the original article, not the latest update which says 2018)</p> <p>Here were some of my goals/dreams:</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>1. To sing and play guitar in a variety of styles including rock, blues, jazz, reggae, samba, flamenco (!?), salsa, folk and r&b.</p><p>2. Make my own album where I play all instruments and sing.</p><p>3. If I learn to sing, I may be able to help others learn to sing (I revised this goal, but not as a vocal coach, but just general encouragement)</p><p>4. <strong>I believe singing improves oneβs overall musicality, and singing and drums make up the foundation of almost all music</strong>.</p></blockquote> <p>I still agree with what I wrote in 2010, especially this:</p> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote is-style-default"><blockquote><p><strong>I believe singing improves oneβs overall musicality, and singing and drums make up the foundation of almost all music</strong></p></blockquote></figure> <p>And, as a side note, I’ve been practicing drumming (a little more seriously than I used) since around 2010, too. Basically all my goals for singing apply to drumming as well.</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/how-to-play-drums-for-guitarists/" data-type="post" data-id="3646">How to Play Drums (for Guitarists)!</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/kindness-in-learning-music/" data-type="post" data-id="3840">Kindness in Learning Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/positive-self-talk-life-music/" data-type="post" data-id="2165">Positive Self-Talk in Life and Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/the-3rd-way-and-abundance/" data-type="post" data-id="2049">The 3rd way and abundance</a></li></ul> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Find a Teacher!</h3> <p>Here’s my journey up to now. </p> <p><strong>I am very glad that I have kept going</strong> (I definitely really felt sad and bad about my singing and wanted quit a lot times) and pursued learning to sing.</p> <p>I feel like I learned to play guitar pretty quickly (at least I felt I was learning fast, though I am still learning a lot). But with voice, my progress has seemed very slow. </p> <p><strong>The main things that helped me become a better singer</strong> (still very much a beginner):</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><strong><em>Find a very great (and supportive) teacher</em></strong> and <em>consistent practice have helped me greatly</em>!</p></blockquote> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">12 Ways/Reasons To Learn to Sing (for Guitarists)</h3> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Finding a very great (and supportive) teacher</strong> (I haven’t asked if they would like to be mentioned, but thank you very, very much)</li><li><strong>Practicing a little bit every day</strong></li><li><strong>Not quitting</strong></li><li><strong>Being patient and looking at the long term</strong></li><li>Seeing a friend really progress from complete beginner to an accomplishment singer</li><li>Seeing all the videos of people who started from scratch and made progress.</li><li><strong>Realizing that even great and/or famous singers have vocal coaches, so if I was a beginner, then I surely must need one</strong></li><li>Meeting a guy who learned to sing from an online course, and was already playing gigs – I thought if he could do it as a hobby, then I (as a “serious”, “gigging” musician should be able to)</li><li><strong>Realizing that so many great guitarist and musicians could also sing</strong>. Were they great because they could sing, or could they sing because they were great? In the end, I figured it didn’t matter, and I wouldn’t know unless I tried (and I would at least learn something in the process)</li><li><strong>A great guitar friend who showed me how practiced singing different intervals from the major scale on his guitar</strong>. I tried doing this off and on and I saw that could actually do this with varying degrees of success.</li><li><strong>George Benson</strong> <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> Besides Wes and John McLaughlin and Django and Joe Pass, he’s probably one of my favorite jazz guitarists, and he could sing while he played guitar. Kind of like Jimi Hendrix. Awesome!</li><li><strong>Realizing that I couldn’t practice guitar in the car, but I could practice singing.</strong> Since I was driving to gigs (very grateful for the gigs), I could practice while driving. It meant I was technically “practicing” maybe almost an hour extra most days.</li></ol> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>Yes, there are great singers like <strong>Ella Fitgerald</strong> and <strong>Justin Bieber</strong> who learned to sing at an international level probably mostly on their own by the time they were 20, but that doesn’t mean I couldn’t learn to best of my ability!</p></blockquote> <p>Seeing/hearing some great musician friend sing, plus hearing some great instrumentalists also be able sing decently were great motivators to learn to sing.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>And, it seemed like to become a better musician, I would need at some point to become a better singer.</p></blockquote> <p>A lot of the greatest musicians also could sing, so it seemed only logical to become a better musician I would need to learn.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Learning to Sing Helps you Learn Songs and Transcribe Better</h3> <p>Another big reason I have always wanted to learn – to be able to learn solos and songs quicker and better.</p> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote is-style-default"><blockquote><p>Some great musicians advise learning solos and songs by first singing the melody of the solo/song. Then play it on your horn.</p></blockquote></figure> <p>Some great jazz musicians say the best way to learn solos (transcribing solos) requires being able to sing the solo before playing it on your instrument. </p> <p>I’ve learned some cool jazz solos but super slowly – my ear has always been underdeveloped compare to my technique – and <em>it had become a serious blocking point to learning music better, especially <strong>bebop</strong></em>. </p> <p>I figured that I could learn transcribing better by learning to sing better. (<em>This is still a work in progress</em>) </p> <p>I’ve been trying to transcribe (off and on) the head to <em>Confirmation</em> by <strong>Charlie Parker</strong> for a while. I have transcribed it, but at a super slow speed, and then I’ll forget a few weeks later. </p> <p>For me, learning <strong>John Coltrane’s</strong> solo on <em>Giant Steps</em> and the head and solo to <em>Confirmation</em> (hopefully one day somewhat soon <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> will be my own personal “proof” that learning singing and solfeggio have actually been improving my musical ear. </p> <p>But truthfully even if I never learn <strong>Coltrane’s</strong> <em>Giant Steps</em> solo by ear, I am very happy that I have learned to sing!</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/musicality-nature-nurture-10000-hours/" data-type="post" data-id="3851">Musicality: Nature, Nurture & 10,000 hours?</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/important-ideas/play-what-you-sing-sing-what-you-play/" data-type="page" data-id="2788">Play what you sing, Sing what you play!</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/learning-songs-listen-sing-play/" data-type="post" data-id="2626">Learning Songs: Listen, Sing, Play</a></li></ul> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><a href="https://wyntonmarsalis.org/news/entry/wynton-marsalis-12-tips-on-how-to-practice-for-musicians-athletes-anyone" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2.png" alt="from https://wyntonmarsalis.org/news/entry/wynton-marsalis-12-tips-on-how-to-practice-for-musicians-athletes-anyone - 1. seek instruction 2. write out a schedule 3. set goals 4. concentrate 5. relax & practice slowly 6. practice hard things longer 7. practice with expression 8. learn from your mistakes 9. donβt show off 10. think for yourself 11. be optimistic 12. look for connections" class="wp-image-5146" width="610" height="549" srcset="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2.png 1020w, https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2-300x270.png 300w, https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2-150x135.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></a><figcaption> <a href="https://wyntonmarsalis.org/news/entry/wynton-marsalis-12-tips-on-how-to-practice-for-musicians-athletes-anyone" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wynton Marsalis – 12 Practice Tips for music, athletics, anything</a></figcaption></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Can You Learn to Sing – Yes, Anyone Learn to Sing!</h2> <p>I believe so! It may take some time – but if you love music and are willing to have some patience it’s worth it! </p> <p>I think learning to sing is a great skill for all musicians, and I am very grateful for the progress I’ve made. I wish I had taken some videos of my progress, but maybe I can find some audio clips from over the years. </p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/singing-my-learning-experiences-as-a-guitarist/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2F-elfEwsMoNM%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Singing Transformations</h2> <p>Like I said before, I wish I had made some videos about learning to sing, but here’s some people with amazing results:</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/singing-my-learning-experiences-as-a-guitarist/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FkNYQKCPZqcA%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">YouTube Singing Tips</h2> <p>Obviously, there’s tons of things to learn. One of my favorite vocal videos from YouTube (from around 2010) is this clip from <a href="https://www.aussievocalcoach.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aussie Vocal Coach</a> where he shows you how to a warmup. I must have done this warmup 100s of times.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/singing-my-learning-experiences-as-a-guitarist/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FWnGFMy2WE3g%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/singing-my-learning-experiences-as-a-guitarist/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FJn_IIOyTr_A%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <p>There’s tons of clips out there.</p> <p>I haven’t checked out all of the videos in this playlist, but it probably is worth checking out.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/singing-my-learning-experiences-as-a-guitarist/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FyrRsaDsa5x8%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Practice Make Progress!</h2> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Where I am At</h3> <p>After many years of learning to sing – I can say that I am sounding pretty decent – and on a fairly consistent basis am singing in decent tune. </p> <p>I also just am learning to support my voice. I am a baritone. I would say my range is “kind of” ~ Db 2 octaves below middle C up to about middle C.</p> <p>I am also studying violin and viola (and maybe dreaming of playing cello, too), which I think has recently helped with intonation, too.</p> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote is-style-default"><blockquote><p>That all being said, I have a ways to go before I would even consider myself a “decent”, “real” singer. </p></blockquote></figure> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/learning-new-instruments-for-enjoyment-and-musicality/" data-type="post" data-id="3649">Learning Multiple Instruments for Enjoyment and Musicality</a></li></ul> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Best Wishes!</h3> <p>If you’re interested in improving your musicality, I think learning melody, harmony and rhythm are some of the main things to focus on. </p> <p>I’ve working on these musical building blocks on guitar. But I’ve also focused on the specifically (it’s sort of an experiment) by:</p> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Melody</strong> – learning to sing</li><li><strong>Harmony</strong> – learning piano</li><li><strong>Rhythm</strong> – learning drums</li></ol> <p>Best wishes everyone! Take care and peace and love!</p> <p>If you have an questions, ideas and/or comments, please comment below or feel free to <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/help/contact/" data-type="page" data-id="361">contact me</a>!</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/how-to-play-drums-for-guitarists/" data-type="post" data-id="3646">How to Play Drums (for Guitarists)!</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/11-ways-to-improve-musicality/" data-type="post" data-id="1963">12 ways to improve musicality</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/learning-new-instruments-for-enjoyment-and-musicality/" data-type="post" data-id="3649">Learning New Instruments for Enjoyment and Musicality</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/musicality-nature-nurture-10000-hours/" data-type="post" data-id="3851">Musicality: Nature, Nurture & 10,000 hours?</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/ideas-developing-self-belief-overcoming-self-doubt-music-video/" data-type="post" data-id="2618">Ideas for developing self-belief and overcoming self-doubt in music (video)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/five-5-10-minute-practice-ideas/" data-type="post" data-id="3878">Five 5-10 Minute Practice Ideas</a></li></ul> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/singing-my-learning-experiences-as-a-guitarist/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>2</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3987</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Music, Busking, Freedom of Art/Speech & USA 1st Amendment</title> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/music-busking-freedom-of-art-speech-usa-1st-amendment/</link> <comments>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/music-busking-freedom-of-art-speech-usa-1st-amendment/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[bluegreenguitar]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2020 17:02:21 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Financial/Economics]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Good vibes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Music]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self improvement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[busking]]></category> <category><![CDATA[musicality]]></category> <category><![CDATA[practice ideas]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.guitarkitchen.com/?p=3953</guid> <description><![CDATA[Hey everyone! Hope all is well with you, all things considered! I just thought I’d share some ideas about freedom of speech, especially how it relates to music and some experiences I’ve had with the intersection between playing music, freedom of speech and the 1st Amendment. Freedom of Speech Congress shall make no law respecting […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Hey everyone! Hope all is well with you, all things considered!</p> <p>I just thought I’d share some ideas about freedom of speech, especially how it relates to music and some experiences I’ve had with the intersection between playing music, freedom of speech and the 1st Amendment.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Freedom of Speech</h2> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><em>Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.</em></p></blockquote> <p>Of course, USA 1st amendment is somewhat specific to the USA, but <strong>I think the ideals of the 1st Amendment can be seen as generally applicable to most people around the world</strong>, and a lot places around the world also seek to uphold similar laws/ideas. </p> <p>I understand that some countries don’t allow freedom to practice certain religions – but <strong>this article is more about freedom of speech as it relates to music.</strong></p> <p><em>Of course, there are people that will probably take advantage of society’s protection of freedom of speech. But in general, I think musicians, artists and people do seek to respect the 1st Amendment and freedom of speech, etc.</em></p> <p>I’m not trying (too much) to make a specific statement about current issues (per se), other than that expression of art and music deserves to be protected by fundamental social/government norms – rather I wanted more to share some of my experiences relating 1st Amendment rights and busking. Of course, you could apply these principles to current situations, but it’s not the main focus of the article.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Busking</h2> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>I’ve been <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/gratefulness-music/" data-type="post" data-id="3898">very grateful</a> to play with many great musicians over the years and to have played in a lot beautiful locations around the world.</p></blockquote> <p>Busking rates very highly among many of my great musical experiences. I’ve learned so much about music, people and life from busking. I’ve feel like I paid some of my music dues by busking.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="576" height="576" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/eddie-courage.gif" alt="The secret to happiness is freedom. And the secret to freedom is courage Thucydides" class="wp-image-4006"/><figcaption>Busking, as a musician, can take a lot of courage.</figcaption></figure> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">What’s busking?</h3> <p>It’s basically playing in a public place for tips. In most cities, there’s a culture around busking musicians. And most cities have spots around town that musicians generally tend to play, usually near large crowds where they can share their music with the most people (and usually) hopefully make more money and have more exposure.</p> <p>Here’s some examples of busking, I’m sure you’ve seen stuff like this before – like where the famous songwriter shows up, or a famous musician disguises themselves (or don’t). There’s tons of great (nonfamous) musicians busking, too. </p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/music-busking-freedom-of-art-speech-usa-1st-amendment/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2Fg3AHqcinzZ4%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <p>Anyways, busking is great way for people to hear music, to make a place come alive, and for musicians to continue on their musical journey. Of course, there’s tons of issues, too – like musicians playing too loud, causing drama, and spending their money on drugs, etc.</p> <p>But what many people may not realize is that it’s protected (in the USA) under a ruling from the Supreme Court based on the 1st Amendment.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Learning How to Busk</h3> <p>Even if someone is a great musician, they still need to learn the ropes of how to busk “successfully”. Certain pieces/songs, locations/places, times of the day/week/month/year, sounds systems all tend to work better than other places. </p> <p>I think it depends on the person, but to really learn to busk decently well probably takes at least 6 months of going a few times a week before you work out most of major kinks and start earning decent money (even if you are already a fairly accomplished musician). </p> <p>Some people will discover their busking groove pretty quick, but other may take longer to sort out some of the major challenges.</p> <p>For example, Joshua Bell (an amazing musician and all round human being) played great music. But if he had moved his location slightly and (maybe) experimented with different types of feels/melodies, I think he would have done even better/been more widely well received. But it was basically his first time trying to busk.</p> <p>It’s sort of like the first time someone plays with monitors or on a bigger stage, they probably still have a lot of learning on how to deal with the details. Their performance may be great, but their on the beginning of a learning curve. Busking is the same way (in terms of learning curve), though details are different.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/music-busking-freedom-of-art-speech-usa-1st-amendment/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FLZeSZFYCNRw%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <p>And, even though busking is allowed in many places, there are a lot of local rules governing if someone can still play there at a given moment. A lot of them have to do with noise levels and amps. But there’s other stuff like not blocking sidewalks and what is public/privately property.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/music-busking-freedom-of-art-speech-usa-1st-amendment/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FTPITKZ0Fgfc%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Busking and the 1st Amendment</h3> <p>One of the coolest things about busking is it’s actually considered to be protected under the 1st Amendment. </p> <p>There’s <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Street_performing_(U.S._case_law)" target="_blank">lots of details</a>, so it’s not so cut and dry, but the main (1st Amendment) principle of freedom of speech/expression does remain.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>There has been many reasons to restrict busking behavior such as public safety, noise issues, and curfews. <em>Busking cannot be prohibited in an area where other forms of free speech are not prohibited.</em></p><p></p><cite><a href="https://busk.co/blog/busking-beat/us-busking-laws-court-cases/#:~:text=Freedom%20of%20speech%20is%20a,amendment%20in%20the%20US%20constitution.&text=Busking%20cannot%20be%20prohibited%20in,free%20speech%20are%20not%20prohibited." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Busk.co | US Busking Laws</a></cite></blockquote> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.aclumich.org/en/publications/busking-first-amendment-right" target="_blank">Busking is a 1st Amendment Right (ACLU)</a></li><li><a href="https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/district-of-columbia/dcdce/1:2014cv01203/167132/38/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Detailed Analysis of a specific court cases</a></li></ul> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">What’s Public and What’s Private?</h3> <p>Public and Private Property in the USA have blurred lines in many regards (I’m not a legal expert, this it just an overview that comes to mind). </p> <p>For example, most sidewalks and <em>public</em> transportation areas are some sort of public/private space. And since music travels through the air, it may originate in a public or private space, but cross over into a private space (like the privately owned building across the street holding a board meeting where they can’t hear the speaker, only the the singer across the street singing <em>Wagon Wheel</em> or something haha).</p> <p>One of the other main issues with busking on public space is the possibility of obstructing pedestrian movement. This is an important practical issue, and I think most buskers try to be respectful of the space. But it is an issue nonetheless and different people have different perspectives on the specifics of what is the best use of space.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accepting Tips/Selling Stuff while Busking</h3> <p>Another main issue with busking is that people will leave tips and/or maybe buy an album (under the arguments about freedom of speech). Freedom of Speech doesn’t cover the freedom to earn money. But there’s a lot of gray area. Basically it’s been decided that it’s not central to the fundamental right of an artist/musician to busk – and that it’s allowed.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Common Courtesy and Respect</h3> <p>While the 1st Amendment does protect many forms of unrespectful speech and behavior, I believe street musicians should strive to be as respectful and kind as possible. They should still firm and politely stand up for their rights, as well.</p> <p>Most of the ordinances and town rules about public/street performances are created because of unpleasant situations. They usually don’t want to damping freedom of artistic expression, they just want to be able to walk around and sleep well at night. </p> <p>While I definitely believe in the right to busk under the 1st Amendment, I think musicians should always strive to be respectful of themselves and other. And probably more respectful in some instances.</p> <p>At the same time, ordinances and permits have the potential to be abused as well. </p> <p>It’s a balancing act and citizens and public officials need to be vigilant to maintain a higher level of freedom of speech and artistic expression. But so do musicians.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Learning from Busking</h2> <p>Some of the great musical stuff I’ve learned/improved from busking off and on for over 10 years:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>How to feel what works at given moment</li><li>How Sound Quality Affect Performance</li><li>The Importance of Tight Arrangements</li><li>The Balance Between Feel and Technique</li><li>How Energy Affects Performance</li><li>The Combination of Common Sense and Artistic Expression</li></ul> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Feeling what works</h3> <p>A large part of success with busking is learning and paying attention to what works. And that can change in a few seconds.</p> <p>Sure, you can sort of size up how the people are responding to the music, and adjust accordingly. It’s not just repetoire, but subtle cues and vibes too, like dynamics, melodies vs solos, groove, etc.</p> <p>One of the great things about busking – people generally tip for what they like. So you can usually get fairly immediate feedback if something is working or not – like in 10 seconds to 20 minutes. </p> <p>Of course, what works at one point in time may not work at another place/time. </p> <p>There’s tons of factors:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>weather (everyone loves good weather)</li><li>time of day (different moods for morning/lunch/evening)</li><li>time of week (is it Monday or Friday?)</li><li>time of month (pay day?)</li><li>location (are there people, does the location have good Feng Shui?)</li></ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/six-5-10-minute-groove-practice-ideas/" data-type="post" data-id="3911">Six 5-10 Minute Groove Practice Ideas!</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/learning-songs-listen-sing-play/" data-type="post" data-id="2626">Learning Songs: Listen, Sing, Play</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/important-ideas/play-what-you-sing-sing-what-you-play/" data-type="page" data-id="2788">Play what you sing, Sing what you play!</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/11-ways-to-improve-musicality/" data-type="post" data-id="1963">12 ways to improve musicality</a></li></ul> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sound Quality</h3> <p>People react to the feel of the music and the visual spectacle, but one underlooked factor – the sound quality.</p> <p>Getting from decent sound quality to great makes a huge impact. But it’s more complicated that it may seem:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Quality of Gear (it’s obvious, but actually harder to find the best combo of gear for busking sometimes)</li><li>Natural Acoustics</li><li>Background Noise</li></ul> <p>Here’s some info about what I’ve used. It’s not to say that it would be good for you, or that there may be something better. But it has worked in certain gigging/busking situations pretty well.</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/the-evolution-of-my-battery-powered-amplification-systems/" data-type="post" data-id="3378">The evolution of my battery-powered amplification systems</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/review-of-the-roland-micro-cube-bass-rx/" data-type="post" data-id="1669">Roland Micro Cube Bass RX Amp Review (Busking, Guitar, Bass, Violin, Battery-Powered)</a></li></ul> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Tight Arrangements</h3> <p>When busking, you usually have the opportunity to work/practice on arrangements and chops. A big choice is whether to stick to a tighter arrangement versus jam out more.</p> <p>It usually evolves over time – and this is one of the things that makes busking great. You get feedback on the details of your music making craft, and you get the chance to try out a lot of subtle variations.</p> <p>I personally tend to like the tight arrangements for the bigger crowds with solos used to amp up energy – but not straying too far from the musical theme – unless the crowd obviously likes more improv or specific grooves related to improv sections.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Balance Between Feel and Show/Technique</h3> <p>Like a concert, it’s important to balance between feel and technique. But in busking sometimes the balance can shift.</p> <p>Since people are always sitting/standing (like in a concert), flashy grooves and technique can play a bigger part in busking set. It’s not to say that it’s always needed. But finding the balance between the two is an important part of dialing in a set. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Energy in Performance</h3> <p>Most people respond to good energy in music. But in busking the response can be more immediately apparent and tangible.</p> <p>For example, you’ll see people dancing start dancing (especially kids which is always fun). Or you can chill out a tense situation on the street by playing relaxing music.</p> <p>In general the public can usually feel intention and focus that you seek to transmit through the music.</p> <p>At the same time, focusing on the music and not the people also seems to create the better music and overall situations, too. So it’s a bit of a balancing act between focusing on the music and being aware of one’s physical surroundings.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>Usually (in my experience), the musician(s) needs to create a higher (and goo vibes) energy situation to create a musical bubble within the public space.</p></blockquote> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/ideas-for-wellness-and-musicianship/" data-type="post" data-id="3843">Ideas for Wellness and Musicianship</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/12-ideas-for-good-health/" data-type="post" data-id="299">12 ideas for good health (Wellness for everyone including musicians)</a></li></ul> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Common/Street Sense and Artistic Expression</h3> <p>Busking successfully usually requires a good deal of both common sense and artistic expression.</p> <p><strong>Without the good art/music, people usually won’t respond well.</strong></p> <p><strong>Without the common sense – in this case street sense – you can find yourself in all sorts of street/public-space-related drama. </strong></p> <p>There’s so many different people in different roles usually on a city street. Commuters, tourists, homeless people, police, security, other musicians, other vendors, other public workers, the building staff, etc.</p> <p>And plenty of different personalities, too.</p> <p>Each one deserves respect and also proper forms of communication, and generally understood good ways of public social interactions. These specific communications skills and styles of behavior (at least for me) take time to learn and do well.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><strong>Combining the good art and music with the common sense and street sense creates a beautiful combo that allows musicians to share beautiful music with the people. And for the musician to hone their musical art and craft.</strong></p></blockquote> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/gratefulness-music/" data-type="post" data-id="3898">Practicing Gratefulness (as a musician)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/ideas-about-diffusing-tense-situations/" data-type="post" data-id="49">Ideas about diffusing tense situations</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/social-discourse-aligned-with-truth-love-and-power/" data-type="post" data-id="3687">Truth Love and Power, and Social Discourse</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/kindness-in-learning-music/" data-type="post" data-id="3840">Kindness in Learning Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/important-skills-negotiating-part-1/" data-type="post" data-id="2218">Important Skills: Negotiating, Part 1</a></li></ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pracitce Makes Progress</h2> <p>This started out as an article about 1st Amendment rights of musicians, but really ended up about the beauty of busking and some of its challenges. Hope you enjoyed!</p> <p>Anyways, hope this finds you well! All the best. Please feel free to comment/contact me with ideas, thoughts, suggestion, comments!</p> <p>All the best!</p> <p> </p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/music-busking-freedom-of-art-speech-usa-1st-amendment/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3953</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Practicing Gratefulness (as a musician)</title> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/gratefulness-music/</link> <comments>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/gratefulness-music/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[bluegreenguitar]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2020 16:07:20 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Good vibes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Music]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self improvement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[practicing gratefulness]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.guitarkitchen.com/?p=3898</guid> <description><![CDATA[“Feels so good to be alive, baby!” One of my favorite people on YouTube, Ralph Smart, says this and it does feel really good to say it aloud. I was watching one of his videos the other day and he also mentioned the first thing he does in the morning when he wakes up – […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><strong>“<em>Feels so good to be alive, baby!”</em></strong></p></blockquote> <p>One of my favorite people on YouTube, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ralphsmart.com/" target="_blank">Ralph Smart</a>, says this and it does feel really good to say it aloud.</p> <p>I was watching one of his videos the other day and he also mentioned the first thing he does in the morning when he wakes up – being grateful to be alive. </p> <p>I believe he says, “<em>feels so good to be alive baby</em>,” right when he wakes up!</p> <p><em>What do I like to remind myself about being grateful?</em> That I am grateful for a lot. </p> <p>While there’s lots of bigger picture gratefulness I can think of (health, wealth, love and happiness), here’s some “smaller” music things I am grateful for at the moment!</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><strong>What are some of the things (in music, in life, etc) that you might be grateful for?</strong></p></blockquote> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Music Gratefulness</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>To be able to play an in-tune guitar</li><li>To get to play guitar</li><li>To get to play piano</li><li>To be able to easily record</li><li>To have a working metronome</li><li>To be able to listen to so much great music</li><li>To have met so many great people through music</li><li>To all the people who have taught me music, including my elementary choir and band teachers <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></li><li>To get to play music with people</li><li>To be able to learn to sing, at least a little better</li><li>To get to play drums!</li><li>While I am excited to be able to play cool new stuff, I am gratefull for what I am currently playing</li></ul> <p>Sometimes I feel stressed out, or frustrated/angry – and not so grateful. </p> <p>So, I understand feeling frustrated. </p> <p>But it does feel good to relax a little bit (at least my shoulders, which I do sometime tense up in general, and when I am playing music), think of stuff I am grateful for!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Full of Greatness = Greatful = Grateful</h2> <p>I never really thought of this before, but perhaps a person feeling grateful is a realization that one is full of greatness <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></p> <p>I tend to be in the camp of person that thinks everyone (scientifically) is an amazing entity. Just the fact that we are here on this amazing planet is miraculous!</p> <p>Anyways, just thought I’d share this. All the best, take care and hope you all have a great and greatfull day!</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/gratefulness-music/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>6</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3898</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Five 5-10 Minute Practice Ideas</title> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/five-5-10-minute-practice-ideas/</link> <comments>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/five-5-10-minute-practice-ideas/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[bluegreenguitar]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2020 17:35:42 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Music]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self improvement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[5 minute practice ideas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[practice ideas]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.guitarkitchen.com/?p=3878</guid> <description><![CDATA[Practice Makes Progress - Practicing 5 minutes a day is a great way to improve momentum/grease the groove. Usually I'll end up playing longer anyways, since I set my goal for just 5 minutes, I feel success, and then just have fun practicing longer. (As opposed to a 1 hour practice goal, and "only" practicing for 30 minutes, for example)]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><strong>Hey everyone! Hope you are all well! </strong></p> <p>Here’s some practice ideas that I’ve found fun to do and/or practice ideas that I have learned a lot while doing.</p> <p>As always, please feel to comment/<a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/help/contact/" data-type="page" data-id="361" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">send</a> questions, ideas, suggestions, lesson requests!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Use 5-10 Minute Practice Ideas</h2> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><strong>I like to do a bunch of shorter practices throughout the day.</strong> </p></blockquote> <p>Of course, longer practice sessions where I focus on certain things are great. </p> <p>I also like to jam and also to record stuff, too. While there are practice sessions in the traditional practice-your-<a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/scales/" data-type="page" data-id="1237">scales</a> sense, they are great and I love doing them. and they are a positive thing anyways.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Main Points</h3> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Use a Metronome</strong>, Click, Beat, Solid Groove from a good recording, Backing Track</li><li><strong>Have fun!</strong></li><li><strong>Practicing 5 minutes a day is a great way to improve momentum</strong>/grease the groove</li><li><strong>Usually I’ll end up playing longer anyways</strong>, since I set my goal for just 5 minutes, I feel success, and then just have fun practicing longer. (As opposed to a 1 hour practice goal, and “only” practicing for 30 minutes, for example)</li></ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Play Along with a Great Track</h2> <p>Some of my favorite artists/tracks/bands to play along with:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/swing-bop-ragtime-secondline/30-days-to-master-beginning-jazz-guitar-introduction/day-1-learn-jazz-guitar/" data-type="page" data-id="1642"><em>So What</em></a> for straight-ahead jazz</li><li><strong>New Birth Brass Band</strong> for <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/swing-bop-ragtime-secondline/learning-to-second-line/" data-type="page" data-id="1017">2nd line</a></li><li><strong>Daniel Barenboim</strong> for classical piano music</li><li><strong>Coldplay</strong> and <strong>Johnny Hartman</strong> for singing</li><li><strong>Burning Spear</strong> and <strong>Gregory Isaacs</strong> for <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/beginners-course/reggae-guitar-lesson/" data-type="page" data-id="514">reggae</a></li><li><em>Vivir Mi Vida</em> for congas <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f642.png" alt="π" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></li><li><strong>Oscar Peterson</strong> for <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/swing-bop-ragtime-secondline/practicing-jazz-groove-lesson-2/" data-type="page" data-id="1772">quarter note comping</a></li></ul> <p>I have a lot of favorite tracks that I love to play along with. Playing along with the greats is where it’s at. There’s so much to learn from them, plus it’s relaxing and fun!</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>What are some of your favorite tracks?</p></blockquote> <p>In 5-10 minutes (or longer), you can play along once or twice to one of your favorite songs. </p> <p>Try:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>picking out melodies</li><li>singing along</li><li>playing muted rhythm along to the groove (with with chords, if you know the</li><li>making up your own solos</li></ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sing Along with a Great Track</h2> <p>For instrumentalists (especially guitarists), <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/2018/09/26/singing-success-part-1-learning-to-sing/" data-type="post" data-id="321">I believe it’s a great thing to learn to sing</a>. It’s fun, you practice your ear, you can play a chord and sing the melody, etc.</p> <p>Anyways, besides realizing that so many great guitarists can sing, I realized I might as well practice singing while I am driving!</p> <p>So if you have a few minutes where you can’t easily play guitar, try singing!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Count Out Loud While Playing</h2> <p>I learned this from <strong><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/user/rubendiazguitar" target="_blank">Ruben Diaz</a></strong> and it was confirmed by <strong><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/user/havic5" target="_blank">Adam Neely</a>.</strong> Plus, all great drummers can count out loud while they play.</p> <p>It might seem simple, but if you haven’t done it before, give it a try. It’s especially helpful for rhythm/groove stuff.</p> <p>I basically first learned to count out in flamenco music. <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/guitar-lessons/flamenco/compas-part-i/" data-type="page" data-id="452">Learning the <em>compas</em> of bulerias</a>, for example, was much easier when I counted the beats out while I slowly play the music (hopefully in time, too)</p> <p>Then I started applying it to <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/2019/11/26/jazz-guitar-ideas-how-to-improve-time-and-groove-for-jazz-guitar-count-out-loud/" data-type="post" data-id="3637">jazz guitar</a>, too.</p> <p>If you are playing a melody, you can still count out the melody while you play it. It’s probably even more challenging, but (I believe) you’ll see some amazing results if you try it for a week or two!</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/five-5-10-minute-practice-ideas/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FqWZd-MYsmNQ%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/five-5-10-minute-practice-ideas/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FqIfD7ZN5FYI%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/five-5-10-minute-practice-ideas/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FXriLos004wU%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Solfeggio</h2> <p>One of my weaknesses has always been my ear and singing. I could always sight-read pretty well. I love reading music – a beautiful piece written on a page looks beautiful. </p> <p>But I love to learn by ear, too. Besides playing along to music and transcribing solos, <strong>solfeggio is a great way for all musicians to improve their musicianship.</strong></p> <p>It’s basically like singing, but instead of singing lyrics or a vowel tone, you sing a specific name for each note. </p> <p>In “western” music, these are (diatonically):</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><strong>Do, Re, Mi, Fa, Sol, La, Ti (& Do)</strong></p></blockquote> <p>I’ve learned so much by singing melodies with solfeggio. It is also a great way to improve your ear – play the chords to a song and sing the melody in solfeggio!</p> <p><strong>Or you can practice your scales while singing solfeggio</strong>. I try to do this often – it helps my ear, my singing and I also try to improve the tone and fluidity of a scale at the same time</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Chunking</h2> <p><strong>Learning to chunk is a huge practice skill. </strong></p> <p>I am still learning to apply this. </p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><strong>To chunk properly takes a lot of mental focus</strong>. But it’s worth it!</p></blockquote> <p>Basically you take a small phrase of music that you are working on, say 2-8 beats, on focus on polishing that small phrase. Different people do it different amounts of times, but between 5-20 times.</p> <p>Then you do the next chunk. And then you put the 2 chucks together and practice them!</p> <p>In summary (the basic idea):</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Take a small chuck of music (2-8 beats)</li><li>Practice/polish it up 5-20 times</li><li>Each time you play it, consciously intend to improve the phrase in some way</li><li>After each time playing the phrase, pause and consciously reflect on what you liked and what you could improve</li><li>Pick the next phrase and repeat the process</li><li>Then add the 2 phrases together and repeat the process</li></ul> <figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/five-5-10-minute-practice-ideas/"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FSSosOkBnOKM%2Fhqdefault.jpg" alt="YouTube Video"></a><br /><br /><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Practice Makes Progress!</h2> <p>Hope these ideas help!</p> <p>I also just wrote another post about the <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/2020/10/22/make-your-own-backing-track-practice-ideas/" data-type="post" data-id="3714">5 minutes practice idea of making your own backing tracks</a>! Please check it out, it’s a great way to have a fun, productive practice session.</p> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote is-style-default"><blockquote><p>Practice Makes Progress!</p></blockquote></figure> <p>All the best, take care and have a great day!</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><a href="https://wyntonmarsalis.org/news/entry/wynton-marsalis-12-tips-on-how-to-practice-for-musicians-athletes-anyone" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2.png" alt="from https://wyntonmarsalis.org/news/entry/wynton-marsalis-12-tips-on-how-to-practice-for-musicians-athletes-anyone - 1. seek instruction 2. write out a schedule 3. set goals 4. concentrate 5. relax & practice slowly 6. practice hard things longer 7. practice with expression 8. learn from your mistakes 9. donβt show off 10. think for yourself 11. be optimistic 12. look for connections" class="wp-image-5146" width="610" height="549" srcset="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2.png 1020w, https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2-300x270.png 300w, https://www.guitarkitchen.com/thoughts/thoughts/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wynton-12-practice-tipsAsset-2-150x135.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></a><figcaption> <a href="https://wyntonmarsalis.org/news/entry/wynton-marsalis-12-tips-on-how-to-practice-for-musicians-athletes-anyone" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wynton Marsalis – 12 Practice Tips for music, athletics, anything</a></figcaption></figure></div> <p> </p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/five-5-10-minute-practice-ideas/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>8</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3878</post-id> </item> <item> <title>In Response to “Climate change: 12 years to save the planet? Make that 18 months” written by Matt McGrath at BBC</title> <link>https://www.guitarkitchen.com/in-response-to-climate-change-12-years-to-save-the-planet-make-that-18-months-written-by-matt-mcgrath-at-bbc/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[bluegreenguitar]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 24 Oct 2020 18:03:10 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Environment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Financial/Economics]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self improvement]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.guitarkitchen.com/?p=3633</guid> <description><![CDATA[Believe in Climate Change? Do you think climate change will accelerate in the next 20-50 years? If so, read on. If not, are you 100% sure? If not (100% sure), then consider this solution a fairly easy way to reduce potential risk. And, even if (hopefully) nothing (super bad) happens, there might some other, very […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Believe in Climate Change?</h2> <p>Do you think climate change will accelerate in the next 20-50 years?</p> <p>If so, read on.</p> <p>If not, are you 100% sure?</p> <p>If not (100% sure), then consider this solution a fairly easy way to reduce potential risk. </p> <p>And, even if (hopefully) nothing (super bad) happens, <strong>there might some other, very good things that result from planting the right combos of trees in the right places</strong>.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Plant the Right Trees</h2> <p>The simplest (in theory, IMHO) way to <a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/why-planting-trees-helps-the-world/">reduce carbon dioxide</a> is to plant the correct trees. An acre of trees will suck up a lot of CO2. </p> <p>But, </p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>You have to pick <strong>the right trees and plants for each place</strong> for a variety of reasons. And you need to <strong>plant a mixture of trees to create a forest/ecosystem</strong>, not a monoculture.</p></blockquote> <p>To summarize:</p> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Picking the right trees and plants</li><li>Using the right mixture to create an ecosystem</li><li>Monoculture don’t work well and can cause problems later</li></ol> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Wait for Other People? Do It Yourself!</h2> <p>From <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-48964736" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">the article by Matt</a>, he writes:</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>Observers recognise that the decisive, political steps to enable the cuts in carbon to take place will have to happen before the end of next year</p></blockquote> <p>Obviously large organizations can create great impact, but <strong>why not do things yourself?</strong> In other words, don’t pass the buck onto someone else. Do something yourself.</p> <p>There’s plenty of organizations planting trees. <strong>I think my favorite, so far, is <a href="https://www.trees.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Trees for the Future</a></strong> because they do it as part of a whole process called <strong>agroforestry.</strong> </p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>Agroforestry-style planting would probably (have a higher chance to) help re-green the Sahel (south of the Sahara), and might also help China re-green parts of its land.</p></blockquote> <p>Of course, it’s worthwhile to be involved in positive politics, too. But, at least don’t think of it as the only solution!</p> <p>Thanks and best wishes!</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/health-wealth-and-love-in-music/">Wealth, Wealth and Love in Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/12-ideas-for-good-health/">12 ideas for good health (Wellness for everyone including musicians)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/daily-ideas-for-living-healthy/">Daily ideas for living healthy</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/truth-love-power-in-music/">Truth, Love, and Power in Learning Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/important-skills-negotiating-part-1/">Important Skills: Negotiating, Part 1</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/positive-self-talk-life-music/">Positive Self-Talk in Life and Music</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/abundance-and-zero-sum-mindsets-cognitive-bias-distortion/">Abundance and Zero-sum Mindsets – How Cognitive Bias and Distortion Affect Our Thinking</a></li><li><a href="https://www.guitarkitchen.com/social-discourse-aligned-with-truth-love-and-power/">Truth Love and Power, and Social Discourse</a></li></ul> ]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3633</post-id> </item> </channel> </rss>