Published:
2014-06-26
Updated:
2019-06-06

Learning Ukulele with Curt

Practice, Play and Rules (Theory) - The Three Words

Chuck Anderson wrote a great blog entry about the three words Play, Practice and Theory that send the wrong message to players and the general public.

Author(s): Curt Sheller Publisher: Curt Sheller Publications Code: ML-basic-20

Main Category: Guest Main Instrument: Any

Subjects: Chords

2019-06-06

Practice, Play and Rules (Theory) - The Three Words

Chuck Anderson wrote a great blog entry about the three words Play, Practice and Theory that send the wrong message to players and the general public.

With Chuck Anderson's permission I've reproduced it here.

The Three Words

by Chuck Anderson

There are three words commonly used in music that should be avoided – or at least redefined.

These words are Practice, Play and Rules.

  • Practice — This implies boring repetition. It's un-creative and unproductive.
  • Play — This connotes casual fun – a frivolous, optional activity.
  • Rules — These are a rigid set of law which must be followed.

I would suggest that the word Practice be replaced with the word Explore.

I would suggest that the word Play be replaced with the word Work.

I would suggest that the word Rules be replaced with the word Principles.

Why?

Work in the music business is not like work in any other field. Most musicians feel blessed to make music their career. So work in this context is joyful not tedious.

The Principles of music hold the key to the development of your potential. Within these principles, there is unlimited opportunity to expand your creativity.

Why learn Theory?

Checkout Adam Neely's Why you should learn music theory (Prescriptivism vs Descriptivism) . Adam articulates it a lot better than I every would.

It will NOT effect you technical ability or stifle you creativity.Curt

Why Not? — When you Explore music, it becomes fun and exciting. To explore is to discover!

The better you get, the better musicians you can play with and the more fun you'll. It's a vicous cycle that leads to more fun.

*For more of Chuck's great writing and playing visit: www.ChuckAndersonJazzGuitar.com