The Difference Between Good and GREAT Musicians

Written by Tak Kwan

Often, the musicians everyone expect to be a raging success lose “the race to the top” to younger and less talented musicians.

Although they all start their journey with the same level of zeal, there is a clear trait that seals their fate early on in their musical careers.

So what is the magic ingredient that lets the tortoise beat the hare?

Self-discipline and the consistency to move the needle forward.

Self-discipline plays a vital part in your musicianship; and if you are serious about being a great musician, this is the heart and soul of your way to being one.

Over the years, I have seen irrefutable proof of this as I work with many young minds in their journey from amateur playing to winning their first violin performance.

Maintaining proper violin posture, memorizing a musical piece, mastering a new technique, or learning the notes on a violin can take months of practice before students can hear the fruits of their labor.

And in the end, it really all comes down to repetitive and deliberate practice.