Drum tracks. I want basic percussion only beats on mp3. [more inside]
posted by verisimilitude on Dec 11, 2009 - 7 answers

Where in Portland, OR might I go to practice piano...for free/cheap?? [more inside]
posted by Lutoslawski on Nov 4, 2009 - 9 answers

Is there anywhere in the DC area I, being relatively broke, could practice on a real piano? [more inside]
posted by phrontist on Aug 21, 2009 - 7 answers

How do Olympic gymnasts (and other gymnasts at the elite level) train for their routines? Do they break their choreography into segments? Is there a set, systematic schedule or program used across the sport? A way to measure their progress? How might this compare (or apply) to the way a musician might prepare for an audition or a competition? [more inside]
posted by Busoni on Jul 30, 2009 - 4 answers

How do bands in cities practice? I've got the band, I need the space. [more inside]
posted by tmcw on May 20, 2009 - 22 answers

How should I go about learning to play the Octave Mandolin? [more inside]
posted by mjewkes on Jul 1, 2008 - 6 answers

Given that I have a somewhat substantial history playing the piano, how difficult would it be to take up lessons for the piano again after years out of practice AND start, for the first time, lessons on the Violin? How beneficial would such "cross training" be? How difficult would it be to find a teacher who could guide me on such a hybrid path? Other Thoughts? [more inside]
posted by DetonatedManiac on Apr 8, 2008 - 5 answers

I'm looking for really terrible creative works made by well-regarded artists. For example, Picasso's secret crappy drawings, or John Coltrane playing out of tune. I welcome examples from all creative pursuits from all eras: literature, music, art, dance, theatre, film, architecture, graphic design, etc. [more inside]
posted by desjardins on Mar 4, 2008 - 41 answers

When I was an undergrad (the first time) I saw a quote on the door of one of my music professor's doors. The subject had to do with practicing and I swear it used the phrase "On Tackling the Beast". I think the quote was from a book but I can't remember. Sound familiar to anyone?
posted by Silvertree on Feb 29, 2008 - 5 answers

Any experiences with drum practice pad sets? After moving into a small apartment and considering my options, I've decided to get a practice pad set. These are two sets that I'm considering: Remo and DW. Anyone know anything about these, or others? Thanks!
posted by k7lim on Jan 14, 2008 - 7 answers

I'm re-teaching myself piano and need suggestions for drills, scales and other practice material. [more inside]
posted by ninazer0 on Feb 15, 2007 - 12 answers

Violin/Musician Filter: Help me whip my fingers into shape! [more inside] [more inside]
posted by mittenedsex on Sep 1, 2006 - 5 answers

I'm a fourteen-year-old cellist and singer who experiences no trepidation in practicing the former—in our finished basement or otherwise—but who is intractably reluctant to practice the latter, either upstairs with the piano or downstairs. This is beginning to present a problem. [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Aug 21, 2006 - 19 answers

Music Practice: I recall someone describing to me a book that describes how to get into the proper mindset for practicing your instrument, and discusses the psychology of performing, stage fright, and how to achieve the right mindset before a performance. The person who described it said it had helped them greatly in practice and performance. This may not be enough to nail down the specific book, but does anyone have a book or method that has helped them with these things? [more inside]
posted by agropyron on Jan 31, 2005 - 7 answers

Musicians: can you suggest any good programs to set up backing tracks on your computer to practice over? Along the lines of Groove Blender, but less limited. A programmable Jamie Aebersold CD, if you will. Ideally, of course, free and downloadable. Extra points for groovy beats.
posted by gottabefunky on May 8, 2004 - 2 answers