What to Do When You're in a Slump

You know that feeling. “I really need to get that done, but I am NOT feeling it.” 

Well, I have to admit that I’ve been there for the past month. In my case, the problem isn't playing my instrument; my slump was about staying in touch with my subscribers! I haven't been showing you support or giving any motivation! 

But here’s my excuse—the LA Phil started the season with a HUGE mountain to climb (figuratively, but also literally). We had four concerts of Richard Strauss’s Alpine Symphony! In case you don't know the piece, it's 50 minutes of very fast notes and loud, sustained passages that test mental and physical endurance.

The next two weeks included a new piece by John Adams, plus the Firebird Suite, Rite of Spring, and also Mahler 2. And now we're alternating those programs almost daily on a two-week tour of Asia.

Do you forgive me yet?

I feel bad, but I have to remind myself that when we're overwhelmed by other priorities, it’s okay to take a break from our regularly scheduled programming. 

And there has been an upside—the pressure has made my practice more consistent and efficient. I'm feeling a renewed sense of confidence that feels really good when I step onstage.

In the crush of the past month, here's what I learned:

There is no substitute for careful, slow practicing. Training your brain is as important as training your fingers. It’s impossible to always play perfectly...but it's ALWAYS possible to play beautifully. Performance is about commitment. It always helps to breathe and be open to those around you.

I hope your new season, or semester, or autumn is off to a great start! Cut yourself more slack if some things take longer than you expected, or if you don't have the energy to do EVERYTHING every single day. Our journey is long, and we'll never make it if we burn ourselves out.