TACKLING THE MONSTER
Twelve Practice Tips from Wynton Marsalis
It can be great fun to play an instrument, but in order to get better we have to go through the drudgery of
practicing - that is the Monster that is in the title of this video. Wynton Marsalis is one of the most talented
trumpet players of the 20th century. He crosses over between challenging classical music to upbeat jazz. In
order to get as good as he is, he has spent untold hours practicing his instrument. In this video he talks about
some strategies we can all use to approach the dreaded specter of practicing. While you watch the video,
answer the questions below.
1. Marsalis has 12 Rules for Successful Practice. Complete the list below as he introduces them.
1. seek out _____________________________instruction
2. write a ________________________of how to practice
3. set ________________________ to chart development
4. _____________________________ when you practice
5. relax and practice ______________________________
6. practice longer on things you _________________ play
7. play ____________________________with expression
8. learn from your ________________________________
9. don’t ________________________________________
10. ___________________________________for yourself
11. be __________________________________________
12. lock for __________________________to other things
2. Do you already use any of these strategies? Which ones?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
3. How can you improve your practice routine in order to be even more successful in music this
semester?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
4. How will you know if you are being more successful by using these strategies?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Listening Response: Wynton Marsalis Quintet
Watch the following video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RqWGuWIM_g
1. Describe the opening of the performance. How is it different from what we normally experience at a
“classical” concert? Describe what you hear.
2. Were there any instruments that you were surprised to hear playing with this jazz ensemble? Which
ones?
3. Do you hear any techniques used by the performers that sound different or or new? Describe what you
hear - what are they doing to create those sounds?
4. There was one guy standing at the back of the band - did you notice him? What was he playing?
Further reading: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Marsalis-family
