I am from concert band, playing the tenor saxophone. I enjoy practising alone because I get to have the freedom of practising whatever i want. Practising alone is compulsory for everyone because when the whole band get together to practise as an overall, there is no time of individuals to figure out rhythm, fingerings and volume.
Band needs constant hard work to improve, at least in pace with others. Not touching the instrument for 1 week can make a really significant difference. The "feel" will be gone and naturally unable to play. "Interaction" with quite important because by just think of a low sound, you will be able to produce a lower note. Amazing huh.
I will usually spend 5 to 6 hours a week on individual practises, around 2 to 3 hours per session. It is really fun to practise, feeling committed to the band. Individual practise will start with tuning, ensuring the instrument is in tune; warming up, to produce nice sound and last longer; scales and exercise to warm up too; and lastly pieces.
When doing pieces, i have to sort out the rhythm of important parts like the melody, solo and counter melody. I have to get my fingerings, timings and volume right too. Whenever I encounter problems, I will consult my seniors, but I prefer to try out myself first.
I have a sense of satisfactory when I have practised well and is able to play the pieces. It is a nice feeling being able to play together with the band. I will be practising even harder now because the band will be performing at the Istana on 16 Febuary and I have a solo. Being the first sec 2 without experience to perform a solo, I am naturally excited and nervous.
♥ 愛しています @ 7:07 PM
