“Amateurs Practice Until They Get It Right. Professionals Practice Until They Can’t Play It Wrong”

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amateur-contest-thWhen I first ran across this statement, I knew I had to have it posted where I could read it every morning.

Comparing the two different work ethics can be a rude reminder that most of us are still amateurs.

On which side of the isle do you stand?

If you think you should be referred to as a professional, I would like to submit this challenge to you.

Below I have posted a simple passage which at first perusal might seem an easy collection of notes to perform. With closer investigation you might consider this example as possibly more difficult as you first judged. Now, my challenge to you is in line with the true meaning of the title of this post…..

“Amateurs Practice Until They Get It Right. Professionals Practice Until They Can’t Play It Wrong”.

If you consider yourself a professional, then you should have no problem performing this passage ten (10) times in a row, perfectly, at the tempo indicated.

I will even post a video of your performance on this blog if you send one to me.

Will the first challenger please step up?

The first successful performer to submit a perfect video will have his/her choice of any three (3) arrangements from our library at ….

http://www.trumpetensemblemusic.com/

Download exercise here- Amateur or Professional

Bruce was a member of the faculty at the University of Northern Iowa, School of Music in Cedar Falls from 1969 until his retirement in 1999. He has performed with many well-known entertainers such as Bob Hope, Jim Nabors, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme, Anita Bryant, Carman Cavalara, Victor Borgie, the Four Freshman, Blackstone the Magician, Bobby Vinton and John Davidson.

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4 thoughts on ““Amateurs Practice Until They Get It Right. Professionals Practice Until They Can’t Play It Wrong””

  1. Jack P.

    I am so an amateur! In fact I have a lot of time ahead of me before I can even claim amateur status! I’ll just be ecstatic when I can play well at all.

    • Bruce Chidester

      You’re way too tough on yourself. If you gain an inch a day be content. If you lose an inch a day, quit!

  2. Steve Rangihuna

    I,m still looking for consistency of tone and pitch after 18 years!

    • Bruce Chidester

      If you are looking to better your playing, at least your looking in the right direction.

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