1. Listening Listening to great music in styles you love — so your ears learn what “good” actually sounds like. 2. Training the Body (Practice) Practicing in a way that teaches your body to do what your brain wants — so playing feels natural instead of forced. 3. Understanding (Theory) Learning the common musical structures that appear in almost all music  — so you know what you’re hearing and playing. 4. Repertoire (Application) Applying everything through real songs — so yo

In transition — I’ve left Lewisburg, PA, and I’m settling into my first semester at New England Conservatory in Boston. I’m no longer...