The Challenge of a New Piece

The concert or exam is just a month away, and it feels like there’s enough time to learn that new piece or pieces. But as the performance day approaches, nervousness and uncertainty set in. You might even wish for a delay of another month. Does this situation sound familiar? It’s a trap many of us fall into repeatedly.

How Did You End Up Here?

You chose that beautiful yet challenging piece because you felt it matched your technical abilities, or perhaps you just wanted to try something new. Your guitar teacher likely cautioned you that the time was insufficient and suggested choosing something else. But you remembered that math test you studied for just three weeks and aced, which gave you confidence. So, you assured your teacher you could handle it, and the choice was made.

The Reality of Learning a New Piece

You started working on the piece, enjoying the process of uncovering its aesthetic and musical qualities. However, as you delved deeper, technical challenges began to surface. Your teacher likely marked certain bars for extra practice at home. You followed these instructions, but after a few weeks, you realized time was running out, and it was too late to change the piece. With no other option, you practiced intensely, trying to perfect it before the deadline.

The Result

Unfortunately, this approach often leads to disappointing exam results or an average concert performance. The inner disappointment and lack of satisfaction can be quite disturbing and counterproductive. Learning a new piece, especially one that pushes the limits of your technical skills, takes time. It’s difficult, if not impossible, to establish a reliable timeline for mastering it.

The Timeless Nature of Classical Guitar Music

The great thing about classical guitar music is that it never goes out of fashion. Once you learn a piece, you can perform it for a lifetime. Ideally, learning a new piece or adding one to your repertoire should be a stress-free process, free from time constraints. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have goals or plans—quite the opposite. Having goals and musical aspirations is essential for your growth as a musician.

Selecting the Right Piece

Choosing a new piece requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

1. Why Do You Need This Piece?

• For an Upcoming Concert: If you’re performing soon, it’s wise to stick with a well-known piece. The audience will enjoy it, and you’ll feel more comfortable.
• For an Exam: This situation leaves you with fewer options, but there’s usually a syllabus with multiple pieces to choose from. If time is short, pick an easier piece so you can focus on musicality rather than technical challenges.
• Personal Enjoyment: If you simply love the piece and dream of playing it before a big audience one day, go for it! It might take months or even years, but the time spent will be rewarding.
• Imitation: If you’re inspired by someone else playing the piece, remember to be yourself. There are countless pieces that can showcase your unique musical abilities.
• Skill Development: If your goal is to develop specific skills, consider working on etudes or instructional materials your teacher can provide. This approach will benefit you more in the long run.

2. What Is Your Skill Level?

Understanding your current technical skill level is crucial when choosing a new piece. Knowing your capabilities allows you to set realistic goals and plan effectively.

3. How Much Time Can You Invest?

The amount of time you can dedicate to learning, practicing, and maintaining your skills plays a significant role in your progress as a musician. The more time you can invest, the faster and more effectively you’ll improve.

Consult Your Guitar Teacher

Your guitar teacher has the best insight into what you can achieve within a given timeframe. They can guide you in selecting the right piece and help you set short-term and long-term goals. Share your intentions and expectations with your teacher; they’ll be glad to know what’s on your mind. This collaboration can help them create a plan for your development as a musician.