Jonathan Harnum's Blog

Music practice and sports practice share similarities in their dedication to improvement and mastery, but they also exhibit distinct differences due to the nature of the activities involved. Here are some key ways in which music practice differs from sports practice:

Physical vs. Mental: Sports practice often involves physical training and conditioning, where athletes work on their strength, endurance, agility, and other physical attributes. Music practice, on the other hand, primarily engages the mind and fine motor skills, focusing on mental acuity, coordination, and dexterity.Repetition and Precision: In music practice, repetition is key for refining technique and memorization. Musicians strive for precision and accuracy in every note and passage. In sports, while repetition is also important, the focus is on adapting to unpredictable situations and opponents, requiring quick decision-making and strategic thinking.Solo vs. Team: Music practice is often a solitary endeavor, with musicians perfecting their skills independently. In contrast, sports practice frequently involves team dynamics, where athletes learn to collaborate, strategize, and synchronize their efforts with teammates.Objective Measurement: Sports often have more easily measurable metrics of progress, such as running times, scores, or physical fitness markers. In music, the assessment of progress is often more subjective and depends on the interpretation of the music, tone quality, and the emotional impact it conveys.Injury and Physical Endurance: Sports practice may carry a higher risk of physical injury due to the physical demands of the activity. Music practice is generally lower in physical risk but can still lead to issues like repetitive strain injuries if proper ergonomics and technique are not maintained.Competition vs. Artistic Expression: While both music and sports have competitive aspects, music practice often focuses on artistic expression, interpretation, and emotional connection with the audience, whereas sports practice centers on competition and winning.Ages and Career Length: Many athletes have a relatively short career span due to physical limitations. In contrast, musicians can have longer careers since their skills rely on mental and technical abilities that can be maintained over a more extended period.Equipment: Sports often require specialized equipment and facilities, while music practice usually centers around an individual’s instrument, which can be portable and accessible in various settings.Mental Discipline: Both music and sports practice demand mental discipline, but the nature of the mental challenges differs. Musicians focus on concentration, interpretation, and creativity, while athletes emphasize resilience, decision-making, and adaptability in high-pressure situations.

In summary, music practice and sports practice differ in terms of their physical vs. mental nature, the role of repetition, solo vs. team dynamics, objective measurement, physical risk, artistic vs. competitive focus, age and career length, equipment requirements, and the specific mental challenges they present. Both types of practice require dedication and discipline but cater to distinct skill sets and objectives.

Fascinating episode from one of the best, most varied and interesting podcasts out there, 99% Invisible. I don’t normally post redirects like this, but this one is worth it. Go check it out!

Since the mid-1970s, almost every jazz musician has owned a copy of the same book. It has a peach-colored cover, a chunky, 1970s-style logo, and a black plastic binding. It’s delightfully homemade-looking—like it was printed by a bunch of teenagers at a Kinkos. And inside is the sheet music for hundreds of common jazz tunes—also

Source: The Real Book – 99% Invisible

Sona Jobarteh was gracious enough to let me interview her about practic for the book/audiobook The Practice of Practice. I’m so glad she is getting this kind of attention. She deserves it. Check out her website and her music.

More info from Sona Jobarteh on the Kora and how to play it here. Her last line in that short video is absolute gold, a view shared by so many master musicians, and many of the rest of us, too.