Music uplifts and unleashes inspiration in our lives. In essence, music is a way of life. For music to impact on our lives in such ways, musicians must perfect their craft consistently. Practice in this context does not necessarily mean mastering music skills. It also involves learning non-music skills as well. So which are some of these non-music skills musicians ought to learn? Let us explore them below.  

Public speaking skills

Perhaps you are a great musician but your stage fright problem could be hindering you from realizing your music potential fully. What do you do? A simple initiative such as practicing public speaking skills can be your gateway to a better musician. Of course, you cannot wake up one day, stand in front of fans or audience and nail it. Public speaking is a gradual process that needs consistent practice. You can dedicate a few minutes each day to practice speaking eloquently and incorporate the right body language. Doing so will help you to effectively and clearly deliver the message contained in your music. As you do so, watch recordings of other musicians or public speakers. Focus on how they capture the attention of their audience (their “magic moments”) as they speak or sing. You can also consider enrolling in a public speaking course. The aim, in this case, should be to transpose public speaking skills to your music career.  

Acting skills

How does acting benefit you as a musician? First, let us highlight the general benefits of acting. Acting cultivates virtues and skills such as confidence, teamwork, and public speaking in people. Further, acting helps one to view the world from multiple viewpoints. Through acting, a musician can incorporate the skills gained in the music industry. For instance, a musician can strive to nurture co-operation and teamwork with his music crew. In terms of multiple viewpoints, a musician derives music creativity. The musician can compose songs that speak about different issues affecting the society or that address the needs of a specific group of people in the society.

Thoughtful meditation

If you though meditation was only applicable as a stress or depression coping mechanism or to improve your sleep, you are mistaken. Meditation also helps you to become a great musician. Through meditation, a musician is able to orient the mind towards better performances and practice. Meditation also aids a musician to be creative. Through meditation, a musician is able to brainstorm new ideas, nurture confidence hence eliminate stage fright and reduce tension experienced when preparing for shows and performances.

Be a good role model to your band

Great leadership plays a role in a musician’s ability to deliver good music. A musician has to ensure there are unity and understanding between and among bandmates. This is because band members are a huge asset to musicians. There is nothing as discouraging as losing a bandmate. It is very difficult to replace a bandmate. How long would it take you to replace your drummer? It is obvious you will spend a lot of time before stumbling on the right one. It is therefore important to ensure all your band members are content with how you do things. In essence, you need to show respect, appreciation, and recognition for each member. It surely cannot be that hard to do this.

Final Thoughts ...

As a final point, music is a tune that makes our lives rich in many ways. It is through music that we express our feelings and interact with fellow human beings. As such, musicians must be willing to do what it takes to fine-tune their music.    

Your Turn to Sound Off!

What are some other non-music related skills that can make you a better musician?

Let us know in the comment section below!

   

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