We've all done it. We decide we want to pursue a new interest or hobby. We start to learn about it & then, we want it all...now. Learning any new motor skill requires time, patience and repetition-repetition-repetition. I see it so often that a new student wants the "look" of a beautiful dancer but doesn't realize how many hours upon hours of practice and study that "effortless" look requires.
The analogy is an old one. A builder must first dig the foundation, pour the concrete, let it set before he can even begin to build the house itself. Shortcuts in any of the preparation result in a faulty structure.
Study & rehearse the technique that is current for you now - do not move on until you've established the skills in your current level. It requires patience, focus and honesty with yourself. Practice only what you know is correct. If you find yourself rushing through the drill ( and thereby doing the skill incorrectly) slow down and re-create it correctly. If you've lost track of whether you're doing it correctly - stop immediately and follow up with your instructor as soon as you can.
We dancers can embrace the guidelines that the martial arts sensei gives his student - repeat the movement 10,000 times!
Then, and only then, will your body be able to sing along with the music.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
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