December 3, 2008 by John Ericson

Archived under: Deep thoughts, Pet Peeves   |   Douglas Hill

Hill on What it Takes


A book we are working through with the Horn Pedagogy class is Collected Thoughts on Teaching and Learning, Creativity, and Horn Performance by Douglas Hill. He touches on many topics in this book, but one that struck a chord with me this week is this quote from chapter 12, “In Preparation for College and a Career in Music.”

Commitment, focus, dedication, and self-discipline make up the foundation for a successful career in music. Only students who have well-defined goals and can remain focused and are determined each and every day to reach those goals will have a chance to find a life with music at its center. You must want it, or it will never happen.

Some would argue that if you are not good enough to get into Curtis or Juilliard or wherever right out of high school then you can’t make to the upper levels of our profession. This is incorrect, and I use myself as an example, starting out as no hot prospect out of high school. It is a combination of your talent and the way your teachers help you develop that talent, plus your “commitment, focus, dedication, and self-discipline” as described by Professor Hill.

It is a busy time of year but keep your focus and keep on track toward your goals–that is what it takes.

JOHN ERICSON has wide-ranging experience as an orchestral player, soloist, and teacher.» About John Ericson » More articles » Horn Notes Edition » Contact

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Hill on What it Takes
Published on December 3, 2008 by John Ericson

Archived under: Deep thoughts, Pet Peeves   |   Douglas Hill
John Ericson & Bruce Hembd
on the French horn, brass related topics, and the field of classical music.