That's Why It's Called A Practice


That's Why It's Called A Practice
by Russ Hamel

One of my adult students recently passed her level six piano exam. During our discussion at her first class after the examination she commented, "Even though I passed, I still don't feel adequate to perform at this level."

Right away, the 'Life Skills' teacher in me kicked in. "Who would you rather have operating on you: a top intern fresh out of school, or a doctor with decades of experience on your condition?"

"Who would you rather have defending you: the #1 graduate, or the seasoned veteran with hundreds of case victories to her credit?"

In both instances, she chose the experienced professional over the top-of-the-class graduate.

"And do you know what both of these professionals call their work?" I asked. "That's right. Both of them are called PRACTICES! These people didn't get most of their expertise from the classroom. They got it through continued practice and application of what they learned and experienced."

Just last year, I was grooming another one of my top students to become a teacher. This young lady was known throughout my school as a dedicated worker and a high achiever. However, when it came time to arrange some students for her we had no success. Because of her young age (18) people did not want to study with her, even at a most attractive discounted price. Instead they were willing to pay full price for the older, more experienced teachers, even if they had to be put on a waiting list.

While it may take only a few years to acquire a document that says you can do something, it could take another decade or so to add value to that document. There is a huge difference between knowing ABOUT something and KNOWING something. True knowing comes only with years of practical experience. Given the choice of 'Book-smart' vs. 'Street-smart', many people will opt for the latter.

My adult student realized this and gained a deeper and greater appreciation for the many wonderful and talented concert artists and performers of the world who have given 30-40 years or more to their craft.

And I guess this is also why graduation ceremonies are called "Commencement Exercises". That little rolled up document is only the beginning.