Tag Archive for: music lessons

Rachel Hodis
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Building a Music Portfolio

Building a Music Portfolio

Whether you’re applying to a college music program, auditioning for a performance opportunity, or pitching yourself for paid gigs, a compelling music portfolio can make all the difference. But what exactly makes a portfolio shine? Let’s break it down.

What Should Be in Your Music Portfolio?

  1. A Strong Bio or Artist Statement
    Begin with a clear, concise artist bio. Tell your story: who you are, what inspires you, your training, and your musical goals. For college applications, tailor this to highlight your academic and creative achievements. For gigs or auditions, focus on your unique sound and performance experience.
  2. High-Quality Recordings
    Your recordings are the heart of your portfolio. Include 2–5 pieces that showcase your versatility, technical skill, and musicality. If you’re applying to a conservatory, follow their repertoire requirements exactly. For professional gigs, choose pieces that demonstrate what you can bring to the event like weddings, jazz sets, cover bands, or original music.

Pro Tip: Invest time in getting clean audio and video. Use a good mic, record in a quiet space, and if possible, get help from someone experienced in recording live performances.

  1. Performance Videos
    Visuals matter! Videos show your stage presence and how you connect with an audience. Even if it’s a simple home video, ensure you’re well-lit and that your instrument or vocals are clear.
  2. Sheet Music or Compositions
    If you compose or arrange, include your sheet music or scores. This demonstrates your creativity and skill as a musician.
  3. Resume or Repertoire List
    For college or professional auditions, include a music resume detailing your training, ensembles, notable performances, and awards. A repertoire list is helpful if you have an extensive catalog of pieces you can perform.
  4. Letters of Recommendation (When Required)
    Many college applications require letters from teachers or mentors. Be sure these speak to your work ethic, talent, and potential.
  5. Professional Photos
    A few high-quality photos can go a long way, especially if you’re pitching yourself for paid gigs or building an online profile. Dress appropriately for your genre and make sure your personality shines through.

How to Organize and Present Your Music Portfolio

  • Digital Folder or Website: A polished digital portfolio is now the standard. Use Google Drive, Dropbox, or a simple personal website to share your materials. Make sure your files are named clearly.
  • PDF Portfolio: Combine your bio, resume, repertoire list, and any letters into one PDF file. This looks professional and keeps important documents easy to access.
  • Highlight Your Best Work First: Arrange your recordings and videos so that the strongest piece is seen first. Audition committees or bookers may only listen to the first minute, so make it count!

Final Tips for Success

  • Double-check submission guidelines for schools or gigs and follow them to the letter.
  • Keep your materials updated as you gain new experience.
  • Ask teachers or mentors for honest feedback before you share your portfolio.
  • Practice introducing yourself. Your personal presentation in an audition or interview is part of your portfolio too!

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Building a music portfolio can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you want expert help with practicing, selecting pieces, or polishing your audition skills, our experienced instructors are here for you. Sign up for personalized music lessons today! Call or submit a contact form to get started.

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Rachel Hodis
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The Link Between Creativity and Academic Success

The Link Between Creativity and Academic Success

In a world increasingly driven by innovation and problem-solving, creativity is an essential element of academic and personal success. While many parents and educators prioritize traditional academic skills like reading, math, and science, research continues to show that artistic and musical activities are powerful tools for boosting cognitive development, emotional well-being, and even academic achievement.

How Creativity Shapes the Brain

Engaging in creative activities, especially music and the arts, activates multiple areas of the brain at once. When children learn to play an instrument, paint, dance, or act, they are strengthening neural pathways responsible for memory, attention, language, and spatial reasoning. For example, studies have found that music training can enhance the corpus callosum (the bridge between the brain’s hemispheres) improving the brain’s ability to transfer information efficiently.

This cross-brain engagement doesn’t just benefit artistic pursuits; it directly supports learning in core academic subjects. Musical training, in particular, has been linked to stronger reading skills, better mathematical reasoning, and improved executive functioning, which are the mental skills that help us plan, focus, and juggle multiple tasks.

The Role of Artistic Expression in Critical Thinking

Creative activities foster curiosity and flexible thinking, which are two essential skills for problem-solving. Through artistic exploration, students learn to experiment, take risks, and tolerate ambiguity. A child who experiments with painting techniques, for example, is learning how to test ideas and accept that mistakes can lead to breakthroughs. This is a mindset that can serve them well in science labs and math problems alike.

Drama and theater arts can also build empathy and communication skills. When students embody different characters, they learn to see the world through multiple perspectives, developing emotional intelligence and critical social skills that strengthen collaboration and classroom engagement.

Creativity and Emotional Resilience

Beyond cognitive skills, the arts provide a vital outlet for self-expression, stress relief, and emotional development. Many students face pressure from rigorous academic demands, and creative outlets help them process feelings, manage anxiety, and build confidence. Studies have shown that students who participate in music or visual arts programs often have higher self-esteem and a stronger sense of identity. These traits can help them persevere through academic challenges.

Integrating Creativity into Everyday Learning

The good news is that creativity doesn’t have to be confined to art class or music lessons. Educators and parents can nurture creativity by encouraging open-ended projects, celebrating original ideas, and providing opportunities for play and exploration. Schools that integrate arts across the curriculum often see higher levels of student engagement and academic performance.

At home, parents can foster creativity by exposing children to diverse artistic experiences, from concerts and museum visits to simple crafts and musical play. Even a few minutes of daily creative activity can spark curiosity and strengthen the brain in lasting ways.

Final Thoughts

Students need more than rote memorization to succeed. They need to be able to think critically, solve complex problems, and adapt to new challenges. Artistic and musical activities lay the foundation for these skills, bridging the gap between creativity and academic success. By championing creativity, we empower the next generation to reach their fullest potential, both in the classroom and beyond.

If you’re ready to unlock your child’s creative potential and support their academic growth, we’d love to help. Contact us today to sign up for art or music lessons. Call us at (626) 227-1149 or submit a contact form to get started!

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Rachel Hodis
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Musical Milestones: Celebrating Progress

Musical Milestones

Learning music is a journey filled with highs, lows, and everything in between. Oftentimes, aspiring musicians focus on perfection: hitting every note just right or mastering a piece flawlessly. But the true heart of a musical journey isn’t perfection, but progress. At Hodis Learning & Music, we believe in celebrating the milestones, both big and small.

Why Milestones Matter

Milestones provide structure and purpose to the musical learning process. They serve as checkpoints that:

  • Acknowledge growth: Whether it’s playing your first full song, learning a tricky chord progression, or performing in front of others for the first time, each milestone shows that you’re evolving.
  • Boost motivation: Reaching a milestone reinforces that your practice and effort are paying off, making it easier to stay dedicated.
  • Build confidence: Each achievement, no matter how small, reinforces your sense of competence and encourages you to reach for the next goal.

How to Set Meaningful Musical Milestones

Milestones should be tailored to each student’s level, pace, and personal goals. Here are some ideas for setting them:

  1. Skill-Based Goals: Examples: learning to read sheet music fluently, mastering a particular scale, or achieving finger independence on piano or guitar.
  2. Repertoire Goals: Choose specific pieces that are challenging but achievable, and work toward performing them with confidence.
  3. Performance Goals: These could include playing in a recital, recording a video performance, or performing live with other musicians.
  4. Consistency Goals: Set targets like practicing a certain number of minutes per day or completing a weekly practice challenge.

What’s important is that these goals are realistic, personalized, and motivating. Students should be involved in the process of selecting their milestones to give them a sense of ownership and motivation.

Celebrating the Journey

Milestones deserve more than a checkmark. Celebrate them!

  • Keep a progress journal with videos, audio recordings, or written reflections.
  • Share your progress with family and friends, or on social media.
  • Reward yourself with something meaningful, like new sheet music, an instrument accessory, or a celebration with friends or family.
  • Acknowledge effort as well as outcome. It’s not just about playing the piece. It’s about showing up, pushing past frustration, and growing along the way.

Celebration reinforces the idea that progress matters more than perfection. This mindset leads to long-term success in music and beyond.

Ready to Start Your Musical Journey?

Whether you’re just beginning or looking to take your playing to the next level, we’re here to guide you and celebrate your milestones with you.

Reach out to us today to book your first lesson or to learn more about our customized music programs. Call us at (626) 227-1149 or submit a form on our website to get started.

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Drew M. Hodis
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Music & Self-Expression: Why Music is One of the Most Powerful Forms of Self-Expression

Music & Self-Expression: Why Music is One of the Most Powerful Forms of Self-Expression

Music is often described as a universal language, capable of conveying emotions and experiences that words alone can’t fully express. Whether through melody, rhythm, or harmony, music allows people to communicate feelings in a profound and personal way. Let’s explain just how music can help people communicate emotion.

  1. Express Complex and Deep Emotions

There are times when words fail to capture the depth of what we feel. Music fills this gap by providing an outlet for emotions that may be too complex, overwhelming, or subtle to articulate. Minor keys and slow tempos can convey sadness or longing, while major keys and upbeat rhythms can evoke excitement and joy.

  1. Create Emotional Connection and Empathy

Music has the power to connect people on an emotional level and transcend even cultural or linguistic barriers. A song can make someone feel understood, validated, or comforted in ways that spoken words may not. Songs with relatable themes help listeners feel less alone in their experiences. Shared musical experiences, like concerts, create a sense of unity and connection. Additionally, music therapy is used to help individuals process emotions and develop empathy.

  1. Enhance Emotional Awareness and Regulation

Music allows individuals to explore and process their own emotions in a healthy and constructive way. It can help regulate mood, providing an outlet for both positive and negative emotions. Calming music can reduce stress and anxiety, whereas energetic music can boost motivation. Creating music, whether through singing or playing an instrument, provides a therapeutic release for emotions.

  1. Tell Stories Without Words

Composers and songwriters use melodies, harmonies, and dynamics to convey narratives and evoke emotions in listeners. The next time you watch a movie, pay attention to the score. Film scores heighten emotional impact by reinforcing the mood of a scene. Lyrical music combines storytelling with melody to create a more immersive emotional experience. Instrumental pieces, such as classical or jazz music, communicate emotion through changes in tempo, tone, and structure.

Conclusion

Music is a powerful tool for emotional communication, offering a voice to emotions. Whether through listening, performing, or composing, music allows individuals to share their emotions and connect with others. Interested in learning more about music lessons at Hodis Learning & Music? Call us at (626) 227-1149 or submit a form on our website.

 

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Drew M. Hodis
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Finding Your Artistic Style

Finding Your Artistic Style

Art is a powerful form of expression that allows students to explore their creativity, develop problem-solving skills, and build confidence. However, it can be easy for students to limit themselves to familiar mediums or techniques, which can hinder artistic growth. Below are some key benefits to exploring different artistic mediums and strategies to help students embrace trying something new.

1. Enhancing Creativity and Innovation

Trying new mediums and techniques allows students to discover unique new things. It encourages them to think outside the box and develop original approaches to their artwork. It may even unlock new ways for them to express themselves!

How to Encourage It:

  • Introduce a variety of art supplies, such as watercolor, acrylics, pastels, clay, and digital tools.

  • Organize creative challenges that push students to mix and match different techniques.

2. Developing Technical Skills

Each medium requires different techniques and skill sets. Experimenting with new materials helps students refine their technical abilities and become more versatile artists.

How to Encourage It:

  • Offer step-by-step tutorials on different techniques, like layering, blending, and sculpting.

  • Provide hands-on workshops where students can practice using new materials.

 

3. Building Confidence and Reducing Fear of Mistakes

Many students fear making mistakes, which can make trying new things uncomfortable and intimidating. Exploring different mediums helps them embrace the learning process and understand that mistakes can lead to creative breakthroughs.

How to Encourage It:

  • Reinforce the idea that art is a journey. Every piece, successful or not, contributes to growth.

  • Encourage students to revisit and rework old pieces using new techniques to see how their skills evolve.

 

4. Discovering Personal Artistic Style

By experimenting with multiple techniques, students can identify the mediums that resonate most with them, helping them develop a signature artistic style.

How to Encourage It:

  • Allow students to combine elements from various styles to create something unique.

  • Give students the freedom to explore without rigid guidelines, fostering independent artistic expression.

 

5. Expanding Career Opportunities

A well-rounded understanding of multiple mediums can open doors to various artistic careers, including illustration, graphic design, animation, and fine arts.

How to Encourage It:

  • Explore career paths that involve different artistic techniques.

  • Encourage students to create a portfolio showcasing their experiments and versatility.

 

Conclusion

Exploring different mediums and techniques fosters students’ creativity and confidence in their artistic journey. By providing exposure to various materials and opportunities for experimentation, students can develop their skillsets and their artistic voice. Ready to take the next step in your creative journey? Sign up for art lessons with Hodis Learning & Music and start exploring your artistic potential today! Call or submit a form on our website to get started.

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Drew M. Hodis
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Music Lessons | How to Choose a Music Teacher

How To Choose A Music Teacher

Selecting the right music teacher is crucial for any aspiring musician, whether a beginner or an advanced student looking to refine their skills. The right teacher can make learning an instrument an enjoyable and rewarding experience, while the wrong fit can make lessons less enjoyable. Here are some essential tips to help you choose the perfect music teacher for your needs.


1. Define Your Goals

Before you start searching for a music teacher, it’s important to define your musical goals. Are you a complete beginner looking to learn the basics, or do you have some experience and want to improve specific skills? Understanding your objectives will help you find a teacher whose expertise aligns with your needs. For instance, if you’re interested in classical music, you’ll want a teacher with a strong background in that genre.


2. Research and Referrals

Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or fellow musicians. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into a teacher’s teaching style and effectiveness. Additionally, consider researching online. Many music schools and independent teachers have websites or profiles on social media where you can learn more about their qualifications and teaching philosophy. Learn more about Hodis Learning & Music’s expert music teachers here.

3. Check Qualifications and Experience

A good music teacher should have a solid educational background and relevant teaching experience. Look for teachers with formal training in music, such as a degree from a reputable music school or conservatory. Experience is also crucial. Teachers who have been teaching for several years are likely to have refined their methods and can handle a range of student abilities and personalities.


4. Evaluate Teaching Style

Every teacher has a unique teaching style, and it’s important to find one that matches your learning preferences. Some teachers are very structured and focus on technique and theory, while others might emphasize creativity and improvisation. Consider taking an introductory lesson to get a feel for the teacher’s approach. During this lesson, pay attention to how the teacher communicates and whether they make you feel comfortable and motivated.

5. Assess Compatibility

Compatibility between the teacher and student is key to a successful learning experience. A good teacher should be patient, encouraging, and able to adapt their teaching methods to suit the student’s learning pace. They should also be someone you feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes around. Remember, learning an instrument is a process that involves trial and error, and a supportive environment is essential.

6. Consider Logistics

Practical considerations are also important when choosing a music teacher. Think about the location of the lessons – is the teacher’s studio conveniently located, will they come to you, or do they offer online lessons? Also, consider the cost of lessons. Rates can vary widely based on the teacher’s experience and qualifications. Make sure their schedule aligns with yours and that you can commit to regular lessons to make consistent progress.

7. Look for Passion and Enthusiasm

A passionate and enthusiastic teacher can inspire and motivate you to achieve your musical goals. Look for a teacher who loves music and enjoys teaching. Their enthusiasm can be contagious and make your learning experience more enjoyable. During your interactions, notice if they show genuine interest in your progress and if they provide constructive feedback.

8. Ask About Curriculum and Resources

Inquire about the curriculum and resources the teacher uses. A well-structured curriculum can provide a clear path for your musical development. Ask if they incorporate a variety of teaching materials such as method books, sheet music, and digital resources.

Conclusion

Choosing the right music teacher is a critical step in your musical journey. By defining your goals, researching and checking qualifications, evaluating teaching styles, and ensuring compatibility, you can find a teacher who will help you grow and enjoy your musical education. Remember, the right teacher can make all the difference, turning your music lessons into a fulfilling and inspiring experience.

Start your musical journey today with Hodis Learning & Music! Call or email us today to sign up for lessons.

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Drew M. Hodis

The Role of Music Theory in Learning an Instrument

The Role Of Music Theory In Learning An Instrument

Students and musicians might have mixed feelings about music theory. Some see it as an essential foundation, others might view it as a tedious exercise. However, understanding music theory is invaluable when it comes to learning an instrument. It can provide a deeper comprehension of music, enhance performance skills, and foster creativity. We’ll explore the role of music theory in mastering an instrument.


Understanding Musical Structure

At its core, music theory provides the framework for understanding the structure of music. It explains the elements that make up music, like notes, scales, chords, modes, tunings, rhythms, and how they interact. By learning music theory, students can decode the complexities of a piece, making it easier to read and interpret sheet music. This foundational knowledge allows musicians to understand the relationships between notes and chords, and improve your performance.


Enhancing Sight-Reading Abilities

One of the most practical benefits of music theory is the improvement of sight-reading skills. When musicians understand key signatures, time signatures, and rhythmic patterns, they can more quickly and accurately interpret new pieces of music. This ability is particularly valuable in ensemble settings, where players often have to read and perform unfamiliar music on short notice. Strong sight-reading skills also open up opportunities for students to explore music and become a stronger performer. 


Facilitating Improvisation and Composition

Music theory is not just about reading and playing existing music; it also empowers musicians to create their own. Knowledge of scales, chord progressions, and harmonic functions provides a toolkit for improvisation and composition. Musicians can experiment with different combinations of notes and chords, understanding how they work together to create melodies and harmonies. This creative aspect of music theory encourages students to develop their own musical voice and style.


Improving Technical Proficiency

You need more than physical dexterity to be proficient on an instrument. Music theory helps musicians recognize common patterns and structures, such as scales, arpeggios, and chord shapes. Practicing these patterns with theoretical knowledge in mind can make technical exercises more meaningful and effective. For example, knowing the relationship between major and minor scales can help with faster finger placement and smoother transitions.


Aiding in Musical Interpretation

Understanding the underlying theory of a music piece helps musicians make informed decisions about phrasing, dynamics, and articulation. For example, recognizing a chord progression or a modulation can guide your expressive choices, leading to more nuanced and emotionally engaging performances. This deeper connection to the music creates a more profound and satisfying playing experience.

Building Confidence and Independence

A solid grasp of music theory builds confidence and independence in musicians. When students understand the principles behind the music they play, they are less reliant on rote memorization and more capable of problem-solving on their own. This autonomy is crucial for long-term musical development, as it encourages continuous learning and exploration. Confident musicians are also more likely to take on challenging pieces and perform in public, further advancing their skills and enjoyment.


Final Thoughts

The role of music theory in learning an instrument cannot be overstated. It provides the foundational knowledge needed to understand musical structure, enhances sight-reading abilities, helps with improvisation and composition, improves technical proficiency, and builds confidence and independence. By integrating music theory into practice, students can unlock their full potential as musicians. Embracing music theory is not just about meeting academic requirements; it’s about becoming a well-rounded, versatile, and expressive musician.

If you’re ready to hone your music theory skills, consider signing up for music lessons at Hodis Learning & Music. Call or email us today to get started.

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Rachel Hodis

The Evolution of Music Education: Online Lessons vs. In-Person

The Evolution of Music Education: Online Lessons vs. In-person

As technology continues to reshape education, music lessons have evolved into two primary formats: online and in-person. While both approaches offer valuable learning experiences, the right choice often depends on the student’s needs, learning style, and goals.

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each format and explore which might be best for different types of learners.


Online Music Lessons

Online music lessons bring convenience and accessibility to the forefront. With just a device and a stable internet connection, students can connect with skilled instructors from virtually anywhere.

Pros:

  • Convenience: Learn from the comfort of home.
  • Access to Specialists: Connect with niche instructors regardless of location.
  • Technology Integration: Easily use apps and digital tools for interactive learning. 

Cons:

  • Limited Hands-On Guidance: Difficult to demonstrate proper posture or technique physically.
  • Potential Technical Issues: Connectivity problems or audio lag can disrupt lessons.
  • Engagement Challenges: Younger learners or beginners may find it harder to stay focused without in-person interaction.


In-Person Music Lessons

There’s a reason in-person lessons have been the gold standard for so long—they offer unparalleled hands-on instruction and personal connection. 

Pros:

  • Immediate Feedback: Instructors can quickly correct technique and adjust teaching methods.
  • Engagement and Connection: Face-to-face interaction often boosts focus and motivation.
  • Enhanced Learning Environment: Teachers can better adapt to individual learning styles and needs.

Cons:

  • Scheduling Flexibility: May not offer the same level of flexibility as online lessons, especially for last-minute rescheduling.
  • Resource Availability: Some specialized resources or technology available online might not be utilized.


Which Option is Best for You?

The choice between online and in-person lessons often depends on the student’s age, skill level, and learning preferences:

  • Beginners and Younger Students: In-person lessons are typically better for establishing foundational skills and maintaining focus. 
  • Intermediate and Advanced Students: Online lessons work well for those with some experience, especially if they’re seeking instruction in a specific genre or instrument that might be unique. 
  • Busy Families: Online lessons can be a great option for families juggling tight schedules.
  • Hands-On Learners: In-person lessons are ideal for students who benefit from detailed demonstrations and physical adjustments.


Personalized Music Lessons: In-Person or Online

At Hodis Learning & Music, we combine the benefits of in-person music lessons with the convenience of learning at home. If you’re located in our service area, our experienced instructors travel to you, ensuring students receive personalized, hands-on guidance in a comfortable environment. We also provide online lessons if you are located outside our service area or simply find online lessons to be a better option for you. Call or email us today to learn more or schedule a session.

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Drew M. Hodis

Practice Makes Perfect: Effective Practice Techniques

Practice Makes Perfect

Mastering a musical instrument requires dedication, patience, and, most importantly, effective practice. While the adage “practice makes perfect” holds true, the quality of practice often outweighs the quantity. Here are some effective practice techniques to help you or your students make the most out of practice sessions and achieve musical excellence.


Set Clear Goals

Before starting a practice session, it’s crucial to set clear, achievable goals. Whether it’s mastering a particular scale, working through a challenging piece, or improving a specific technique, having a defined objective provides direction and focus. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed and to track progress more easily.


Create a Structured Practice Schedule

Consistency is key to improvement. Develop a structured practice schedule that includes daily sessions, even if they’re short. Regular practice helps build muscle memory and reinforces learning. Allocate specific times for different activities, such as warm-ups, technical exercises, repertoire practice, and sight-reading, to ensure a balanced approach.


Warm-Up Properly

Just like athletes, musicians need to warm up their muscles before diving into intense practice. Begin each session with gentle warm-up exercises that target the specific muscles used for your instrument. For pianists, this might include scales and arpeggios, while vocalists might start with breathing and vocal exercises. Proper warm-ups prevent injuries and prepare your mind and body for focused practice.


Practice Slowly and Accurately

One of the most effective ways to learn a new piece or technique is to practice slowly. Playing slowly allows you to pay attention to details such as finger placement, intonation, and rhythm. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable, ensuring accuracy at each speed. This method helps develop precision and prevents the formation of bad habits.


Use a Metronome

A metronome is an invaluable tool for developing a strong sense of timing and rhythm. Start practicing with the metronome at a slow tempo, then gradually increase the speed as you become more confident. Consistent use of a metronome helps you internalize the pulse of the music and improves your ability to stay in time, whether playing solo or with others.

Break Down Difficult Passages

When encountering a challenging section, break it down into smaller segments. Focus on a few measures at a time, practicing them repeatedly until they feel comfortable. Once each segment is mastered, gradually piece them together. This technique prevents frustration and allows for more efficient learning of complex passages.


Record and Evaluate Your Practice

Recording your practice sessions is an excellent way to objectively evaluate your progress. Listen to the recordings critically, identifying areas that need improvement. This self-assessment helps you become more aware of your strengths and weaknesses and provides a clear record of your development over time.


Incorporate Variety

Variety in practice routines keeps sessions engaging and prevents burnout. Alternate between different pieces, techniques, and styles to maintain interest. Incorporating a mix of technical exercises, improvisation, and performance practice can also help develop a well-rounded skill set.


Practice Mindfully

Mindful practice involves being fully present and focused during your practice sessions. Avoid distractions, set specific intentions, and concentrate on the task at hand. Mindful practice enhances the quality of your sessions, leading to more effective learning and greater progress.

Take Breaks and Rest

Finally, remember that rest is an essential component of effective practice. Taking short breaks during practice sessions helps prevent fatigue and maintains focus. Additionally, ensure you get adequate rest between practice sessions to allow your muscles and mind to recover.

Takeaways

Effective practice is a combination of clear goals, structured schedules, mindful techniques, and consistent evaluation. By incorporating these strategies into your practice routine, you’ll maximize your potential and make significant strides in your musical journey. Remember, it’s not just about the hours you put in but how you use those hours that truly counts. Happy practicing!

At Hodis Learning & Music, we offer personalized lessons designed to help you excel in your music studies while exploring the joys of practicing music. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, our tailored approach ensures that you get the most out of your lessons.

If you’re ready to bring your skills to the next level, consider signing up for music lessons. Call or email us today to get started.

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Rachel Hodis

The Journey to Becoming a Musician

What does it take to become a musician? Is it raw talent, endless practice, or a little bit of luck? For many, the path isn’t always straightforward. In fact, it’s often filled with challenges, triumphs, and moments of inspiration.

In this blog post, we sit down with some of our talented music educators to delve into their experiences. From their first steps into the world of music to the lessons they’ve learned along the way, their stories offer valuable insights and advice to aspiring musicians.


When do you remember wanting to become a musician? Was there anything specifically that inspired you?

Bruno B.: I first wanted to become a musician at around 7 years old, and I guess I just stuck with it long enough.

Vaso K.: I wanted to be a musician as a teenager, after I realized how impactful music can be for both myself and others. The defining moment for me, when I decided I wanted to pursue music, was after one performance that went very well. I overheard people talking about it in a way that I never expected- I was walking behind them and they didn’t see me, and up until this point I just never thought I was so good at music. That helped my confidence to hear positive things about me from people, and it was also nice to have affected their moods for the better that day.

How did you work toward your goal of becoming a musician?

BB: It’s more like going to the gym than writing a thesis. You’re never done, you work a little bit every day.

VK: I started studying online and found like-minded musician friends. I was lucky enough to have been able to attend a great performing arts high school and was exposed to a lot of different music there. I focused on expanding my horizons musically, while making sure to put in the time to practice and compose for various projects happening around me. Through that experience I found what I liked and was able to hone in on those areas as a professional.


What was the hardest part of becoming a musician?

BB: Coming to terms with the fact that if you’re gonna put all of your time and energy into music, you’re probably not going to make much money for a while.

VK: The hardest part for me was probably finding a network of musicians.


What’s the most valuable lesson you learned while you were working to become a professional musician?

BB: If you’re doing music, do it because you love music itself. Don’t do it for attention or anything else. Odds are you’ll get frustrated and burn out.

VK: That practice may seem slow but it pays off.


Do you have any tips for overcoming stage fright and performance nerves?

BB: Try to enjoy stage fright. It’s your body telling you that what you’re about to do means a lot to you. Embrace it.

VK: A before-performance ritual can be very helpful. Eliminating distractions like my phone and making sure I get enough rest and healthy food is my standard and a good place to start for anyone. Also, avoiding other sources of stress such as a homework assignment, a project, or anything that is stressful that is outside the performance.


What other advice would you give to students who are considering a career as a musician?

BB: Do it. If you find out that it’s not for you, go do something else. But don’t give up the opportunity of trying it while you’re young.

VK: Don’t forget that this requires daily practice, studying, and networking with other musicians. If you are able to do these things and aren’t phased by twists and turns in the path to the right job, then I can recommend music as a career since it would seem right for you. Know you are doing music and if you get frustrated, keep it in mind.

 

Take the first step on your journey to becoming a musician today with Hodis Learning & Music. Learn more about which instruments we offer lessons for here. If you’re ready to get started or want more information, call or email us today!

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