procrastipractice t1_j7wsw1g wrote on February 9, 2023 at 11:23 PM

Hi Ray, teachers all over the globe recommend to pick a piece that is a little harder than one's current level which sounds like very sensible advice. But it's fun to try to play pieces that are way to hard! Could there still be a benefit in challenging myself with a piece that is too difficult for me?

raychenviolin OP t1_j7wvdqr wrote on February 9, 2023 at 11:40 PM

Picking a piece that's slightly above your technical level can be very good for technical growth. If you decide to go with a piece that's multiple levels higher, then make sure you remind yourself that you're having fun (1-2 sessions is fine) and that you don't have any external pressure. Otherwise, chances are you might become frustrated which could affect your overall relationship to the piece (don't wanna ruin it for later) or even to your instrument.

procrastipractice t1_j7wy222 wrote on February 9, 2023 at 11:59 PM

Thank you for your advice. I have a hard piece I keep coming back to from time to time to see if I have made a bit of progress. But since it's really difficult, I don't expect to play it ever for real. Luckily there is no external pressure, my teacher has no idea ...