When I was in college the most terrifying event of the year were the recitals. I was playing classical guitar at the time. If you’ve ever played classical guitar you know how vulnerable it can be to play solo pieces on that instrument.
Every fudged note sticks out like a sore thumb. Every squeak is as obvious as how poorly the Mariners starting lineup is night after night.
However, looking back, those recitals were one of the best ways for me to improve my playing.
I worked harder in the weeks leading up to those recitals than at any other time.
And that’s something you can do, too. I’ve talked about recording yourself. Playing with and in front of others is a great way to get out of your comfort zone and push yourself.
It almost forces you to get better.
My Rock Songs class on Thursday night does exactly that. You come in and are expected to be ready to play.
But it doesn’t have to be here in my classes. Get together with a friend. Go to an open mic. Run onto the ice with a guitar at a Kraken game. Whatever you feel like doing that will push you outside of your comfort zone will help you improve your playing.
Keep reading: Recording yourself and the one-thing-every-day rule.
Nicholas
P.S. My book, 100 Ways to Improve Your Guitar Playing, has lots of tips to help you improve your playing.