A Rainy Day in Sutter Creek, or

   

     With practice comes improvement. I have heard "Practice makes perfect." I have also heard that perfect practice makes perfect. I understand practice makes better. A question is what to practice, especially when you aren't playing anywhere. Anything and everything. Variation, accompanied by a routine, that's what you want to practice.

     Distractions are everywhere, that's as sure as Death and Taxes, unless you live in a sensory deprivation tank. Who does that, anyway? Shut yourself away from others, or find a mute that all but entirely deadens your sound. Yes, I am being preferential to trumpets or other brass instruments that use mutes. Amplified instruments may use practice amps and a headset. Better to get together with other musicians and play.

     I really enjoy that kind of practice, or playing in public often enough, where band practice is at performance standards. Still, solo practice is still necessary. Hmmm, meanwhile, what am I doing? I am sitting here typing, starting to feel guilty and kind of hungry. Get practicing, Scotty.

     I think I will have my deferred breakfast, then practice. Nope, it's lunchtime already. Sure, there are a lot of leaves to rake along the property, but that will keep. Leaves will lie there and collect friends.

     Thanks for stopping by.