Hard work vs. good work

    Well, it's been another busy semester already, as I have been in 6 countries since January 1st!  As things settle, I have a chance to reflect on my students' progress and my own.  Recently returning from a trip to Mexico where I played assistant principal on Mahler 7, I was happy to see that the type of work I am doing has greatly evolved, and for the better. When in school, we often felt like we had time to slowly work out our issues and make slow, continuous progress.  With a busy schedule, and many family commitments lately, I don't have the opportunity to luxuriate in hours upon hours of meditative practice. I have limited time, and need to be effective with the time I have.  The bottom line is, it's not how much you work, or how hard you work, but how effectively or how good you work that matters.  I was able to get in shape more  efficiently this time around.  I am also able to work up music quickly, because I am methodical, pay close attention to what is coming out of my bell, and am efficient with my spare moments. 
    With my students I see many of them learning this lesson as well.  Many made enormous progress preparing for Solo and Ensemble or their Winter Juries in a short amount of time, and saw tremendous results because they didn't have the time to sit back and let things take care of themselves.  A few worked very hard, but didn't get quite the results they hoped, because it was not enough of the good work that was happening.  But even a week later, as they move into that demanding realm of good work, and trying what is uncomfortable, I am seeing fantastic results. They are working better, and enjoying their horn playing even more. Bravo to everyone!