From Slumps to Soaring: How to Stay Inspired and Driven in Your Musical Journey

Do you ever feel like just not being bothered getting your fiddle out? Trust me, we have all been there! Recently I was talking to one of my classes about ways to keep your motivation up!

One approach to consider is playing music with others. It is much harder to get your violin out and stay motivated when you are playing music by yourself at home. Try to find a local session, or even just another person or two to play music with. Many times I have to convince myself to go to a rehearsal, but I always have fun once I am there, and it reinvigorates my enthusiasm for fiddle playing and music in general!

Another helpful tip is to play through older pieces. Sometimes we lack motivation because we feel like we aren’t getting anywhere. Going back and revisiting pieces that you played earlier on can be eye-opening. Remember how challenging they felt then, and notice how easily you can play the pieces now. This reflection can serve as a powerful reminder of your progress and inspire you to keep going.

Taking periodic videos or sound recordings of yourself is another useful technique. We don’t always see progress on a day-to-day basis, so sometimes it can be beneficial to have evidence from the past. By recording yourself at various points in your musical journey, you can actually hear the difference between where you were and where you are now. It’s a tangible reminder of your growth and can provide a much-needed boost of motivation.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the value of allowing yourself to take a break. Sometimes the best thing to do is to step away for a short time. If you are struggling to motivate yourself, maybe you just need some time off! Ensure that it is a short break and that you have a plan for returning to playing fiddle. This break can help recharge your creativity and passion, allowing you to come back to your instrument with renewed energy.

Remember, motivation can ebb and flow for all musicians. It’s important to explore different approaches and find what works best for you. Whether it’s playing with others, revisiting older fiddle pieces, recording your progress, or taking a break, the key is to stay engaged and nurture your musical passion.