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There Are No Mistakes, Only Opportunities
It depends on your definition of "mistake" and your sense of honesty. "Shit happens" but do you have the composure to neutralize the poo? It's hard to "let go" of situations that happen seemingly out of your control so it is a lot like life - you'll always have something thrown your way but developing an instinct to react with composure is key. And of course - never stop playing! ! Being prepared and knowing the song's arrangment and your own part are essential. And here's the kicker...not just playing along with the mp3. If you depend on another instrument to gauge where you are or for a cue, you are doomed to fail should that reference point ever be absent in the song on stage. Attending my first Rush concert in 1985 and at one point got to see them gracefully handle a momentary snafu (a rarity indeed) where suddenly the music drops out and Peart is the only one playing - a few measures tapping out the pulse on the ride cymbal before the band jumps back in and within seconds they're back on track - no harm, no foul. Until then I didn't know things like mistakes happened to people of such high esteem. But while their caliber easily survives such mishap, I highly doubt they refer to those moments as "an opportunity", particularly since they made it seem rather insignificant. Art Blakey's quote, "So go on and play, and if you make a mistake, make it loud so you won't make it next time." is kind of a "Die with your boots on" vibe but notice it's less about rationalizing a mistake but exhorts you to own it. Mistakes are going to happen so invariably the question is - and to quote Jim Malone from The Untouchables, "Hwhat are you prepahhed to do?" |
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Thoughts? Comments? Criticisms? |