Finding structure in the summer months can be a challenge — here is how I am tackling it.
After my first year at a conservatoire, I am balancing practicing, projects, and other activities this summer. There are some important factors and takeaways from my structure.
1. Effective practice sections — with room for experimentation
During the year at the conservatoire, I was always practicing so much. I had a lot on my plate and had to tackle a lot of it in the practice room. Now in the summer, I have some more time to experiment with things that I didn’t get a chance to look into during the year.
For me, that is jazz and improvisation. I am looking into ways that I can incorporate ideas from jazz into my oboe playing.
Of course I am still focusing on classical things. I have my etudes and pieces, but now I can include other things as well.
What is something that you have always wanted to look into musically but never had the time during the academic year?
2. Considering other activities
When we have more time in the summer, it can be easy to fall into the idea that we should always be practicing. But it’s also important to look at other things, both music and non music related.
I am currently studying some extra music theory in preparation for year two at the conservatoire. I am also studying languages, working, and creating time to hang out with friends.
When in good balance, practicing and non practicing activities go well together.
Apart from your practice, what are some other things you want to do this summer?
3. Creating a balanced weekly structure
Taking both music and non-music things into account, creating that balance is important for structuring your summer.
Also, you aren’t going to get the structure perfectly right at the beginning. Make a structure, see what you think, and then change it to fit you better. That is completely normal.
I wish you a lovely summer!
All my best,
Eleanor
Leave a Reply