Make a statement!

Anyone who has had a lesson or a coaching session from me would have probably heard this line come out of my mouth a number of times. As a brass player, my teaching philosophy is strongly associated with the pedagogical methods of renowned former Chicago Symphony Orchestra tuba player, Arnold Jacobs. His “disciples” are scattered all over the globe, and his legacy has left a lasting impression not only on me, but also on brass playing philosophy worldwide. 🌏

Jacobs’ approach is perhaps so widely accepted and utilised because his methods are grounded in the scientific research of physiology, psychology, and the neuroscience of playing a musical instrument. Although his personal approach was geared more towards brass playing, many of the concepts he covered are universal in the music world, with this quote being one classic example.

One of the reasons why I use this quote so often is because it places the impetus on the student to create their own interpretation of the music they are playing. When you make a statement with your playing, you want to be 100% invested in the musical outcome. You have a crystal clear idea of what you intend to create, and the focus is on communicating this to the audience by executing with purpose. 🗣

I’ve found that encouraging students to consciously think for themselves gives them far greater ownership of the creative process. Because they OWN their interpretation, they will naturally play with much more conviction and clarity than if trying to directly copy someone else’s work, or attempting to please everyone in the audience. Of course you might want to emulate your favourite musician at certain times, or play something flashy to wow your fans and have some fun. But I think there always needs to be room for personal interpretation and individual creative freedom in the music-making process.

Taking this “statement” approach can also make a HUGE difference when you perform. Creating a clearer musical intent can often help you feel more confident and secure on stage, allowing you to really let go and enjoy performing music that you know so well. Because your musical intent shines through so strong and clear, your fear and anxiety will quickly take a back seat!

From a listener’s perspective, I’ve noticed that audiences are often looking for the performer to take them on a journey, to tell them a story, and to SHOW them how the music goes. More often than not a vast majority of the audience won’t know the pieces you are performing anywhere near as well as you do. And even if they do, they are still looking for the performer to clearly express their interpretation. This means that safe, insipid, pedestrian performances do little to inspire or excite audiences. Whereas a performer that makes a statement, whether you “like” their interpretation or not, will at least stir up something in their heart, mind and soul, and leave them a slightly changed person because of the experience you’ve given them.

So despite the current uncertainty, now is actually a great time to explore your own musical ideas, and think about the kind of musician you want to become. 🤔 From now on before you play anything, stop and ask yourself “What do I really want this music to sound like? What story would I want to communicate to the audience? What do I think is important in the music, and how will I express that?”

Even though you may not be performing anytime soon, asking yourself these questions will be vital in strengthening your musical vision and persona. Once you are clear with YOUR musical intent, only then can you make a true and authentic statement of who you really are as a musician. 👍

For a short clip of Arnold Jacobs talking about this, check out this video.