Hello, oboe enthusiasts! I'm thrilled to share some insights with you today on how to make your practice sessions more efficient and effective. My name is Erin Brophey, and I wear a few different hats: I'm the Principal Oboe Player of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra, a Sessional Lecturer at the University of Saskatchewan, and the Director of "The Oboe Path," an online program dedicated to helping oboe players like you find joy and ease in their playing.
The Reality of a Professional Oboists Practice Time
There's a common belief that professional oboists have endless hours to practice and that it's all we do. The truth is, much of our time is consumed by making reeds, leaving limited practice time that needs to be used wisely. I want to share with you three tips that have helped me maximize my practice sessions, despite the constraints.
Why I’m Sharing These Tips
My passion for sharing good information stems from my own journey with the oboe. Growing up in Northern Ontario, surrounded by the beauty of nature, I fell in love with the oboe. But I soon realized that my sound wasn't matching the recordings I admired. With limited access to resources and other oboe players (this was before the internet!), I struggled with reeds and a non-functioning instrument. This experience drove me to create "The Oboe Path," a program that combines a masterclass, laser-focused feedback, and a customized personal plan to help oboists play with joy and ease.
Now, let's dive into the three tips that can help you make your practice more efficient.
Tip 1: Plan Your Practice Week
Start by spending 10 to 15 minutes planning your practice week. Look at your schedule, including time for reed making and actual playing. Consider your upcoming rehearsals and concerts, and decide what to practice and when. This simple habit ensures that your practice sessions are focused and efficient, giving you confidence that you’re well-prepared.
Tip 2: Separate Reed Making from Practice Time
Keep your reed-making sessions separate from your practice time. While it might seem efficient to combine the two, I’ve found that it often leads to frustration. If something isn’t working during practice, it’s easy to blame the reed and start adjusting it. Before you know it, you’re no longer practicing but tweaking the reed. By separating these activities, you can fully concentrate on learning music and developing your technique during practice.
Tip 3: Be Consistent in Selecting Your Reeds
Choose your reed before starting your practice session and stick with it. During practice, avoid blaming the reed for any issues. Instead, focus on adjusting your technique—whether it’s your airflow, embouchure, or another factor. This approach not only maximizes your practice time but also enhances your flexibility as an oboist. Remember, the goal is to focus on making music, not getting sidetracked by reed adjustments.
Thank you for reading, and let’s all strive to become the oboe players everyone wants to play with. Take care and happy practicing!
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