Since it takes me a long time to really absorb information I have had to re-read almost everything in your book several times. Not all at once but a chapter here and a chapter there but it is getting through. One of teh things that go along with being able to really hear myself play is to REALY REALY hear others play and enjoy every note. I have listened to Miles , Clifford, Zoot, etc for years but I never really heard and appreciated what they do and how until I could beging to hear myself play. Then I could hear all the others in a very different way. It is like I am hearing them for the first time without reservations and am now able to bring the music inside where Jazz lives in my mind and soul. WOW what a concept. Thanks for all you do and I have tried to get almost everyone I know to read your book, buy the DVDs, and just work the Steps!!! I am more amazed everyday because I am growing musically everyday a little bit at a time.

Geat Job!!

Bob

Thank you, Kenny.

thanks so much Kenny and thank you too Andrew.

Guy.

The five-finger exercise reminds me of Carmine Caruso exercises I’ve done over the years. I think most brass players do these 2-3 note exercises mainly thinking about developing their range on the instrument. Over time, these exercises have served a dual purpose for me. I’ve found them to be incredibly relaxing and almost zen-like. Kind of like doing tai chi on the trumpet. They’re also great for ear training. Playing every interval on the horn from every direction at a very very slow tempo I liken to watching tai chi classes in the parks in Tokyo early in the mornings. Tai chi students are training for a future physical event that will probably happen at a very high tempo and also learning the art of relaxation and NO THINKING.

Thank you for the very inspiring messages. I find I can listen to music and detach and enjoy as much as I want to – there are no limits to the bliss I experience when listening. But like your book said, as soon as I pick up the horn, its like the bride shrivels up and life becomes sort of a horror film. I have trouble detaching because I’m always worried that I’m not being a ‘dedicated enough’ musician and will eventually lose inspiration and quit playing, despite how much I love music. With this anxiety, playing/composing isn’t as fun, and therefore the fire of self-doubt is fed. My worst fear is being inevitably placed in the category of musicians that should just quit and do something else to alleviate their anxiety. You mentioned in your book that there are 3 kinds of people – those that love the music that much, those that have a deep-seated need to express themselves through music, and those that are too lazy or too scared to retrain for another career. I know I love music and therefore fit the first category, but I suppose that whenever my anxiety arises, I fear that I might also fit the third category, because in a sense I am scared to be anything but a musician (i feel life would sort of be a waste).