Goal Setting for Musicians

Drum class of 2017 Jamey Aebersold Jazz Workshop

If we are not growing, we are dying. A universal law. Without future plans, you're done. Goal setting isn't only for the young. So, here goes.

Make the following lists:

1. Things you want to learn
2. Things that need improvement.
3. Situations or groups you like to play with
4. Things you'd like to stop or change to free up time for more satisfying pursuits and goals.
5. Short term goals
6. Long term goals
7. Your Practice Log, listing what you did today to reach these goals.

Here are my drumming lists:

1. Things I want to learn.
   • Stabilize my swing ride pattern
   • Improve my drum set balance
   • Learn to play orchestral percussion so I can incorporate these skills on my drum set playing
2. Things that need improvement.
   1. Consistency of energy
   2. Good balance in my rock playing
   3. Double bass drum pedal technique
   4. Cardio workouts
      
3. Situations or groups I'd like to play with.
   1. Adam and Jaqueline
   2. Traditional blues and country
   3. Swing group, pre-bebop
4. Things I'd like to stop or change to free up time for more satisfying pursuits and goals.
   1. Less driving for work
5. Short term goals
   1. Siena Jazz 2018
   2. Orchestral percussion classes fall 2018
6. Long term goals
   1. My drumming catches up to my piano skills
   2. Attend Banff Summer Program 2019
7. Practice Log, listing what I did today to reach these goals.
   1. Work in progress.

Please notice that my short and long term goals are in harmony with the rest of the lists.

​Best, 

​David Story

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