Daily Routines Survey (2016)
In 2004 I surveyed the daily routine habits of nearly 50 professional tuba and euphonium musicians in the United States. A majority of the participants were college professors, prominent freelance musicians, or employed by a professional ensemble. Results were published in the Winter 2005 edition of the Journal for the International Tuba/Euphonium Association. In an effort to have a broad and international scope I conducted a new survey in July 2016. A total of 187 responses were submitted by tuba and euphonium musicians from varied backgrounds and geographic locations. The initial questions inquired about personal information and general practice habits. They were followed by specific questions that focused on daily routine components. The respondents were also given a chance to write in detail about their daily routine procedures and philosophies. Results were published in the Fall 2016 edition of the Journal for the International Tuba/Euphonium Association.
A comparison of the results from 2004 and 2016 reveals many similarities. Full results from 2004 may be viewed here.
A comparison of the results from 2004 and 2016 reveals many similarities. Full results from 2004 may be viewed here.
Survey Results (2004) |
Survey Results (2016) |
Bar Graph Key: How often do you do each of the following?
5= Every Day; 4= Almost Every Day; 3= About Every Other Day; 2= Rarely; 1=Never
5= Every Day; 4= Almost Every Day; 3= About Every Other Day; 2= Rarely; 1=Never
Upon analysis of the survey data, several noteworthy trends are apparent. A majority of respondents indicated the regular inclusion of mouthpiece buzzing, long tones, flow exercises, slurring exercises, range development, single tonguing exercises, interval flexibility, scales, and phrasing or melodic exercises in their daily routine. Additionally, numerous respondents specified the need for dynamic studies, finger dexterity, singing and ear training, improvisation, and playing by ear in their daily practice. Professional musicians practice more regularly and, compared to the average, were more likely to practice 1-2 or 2-3 hours a day. Professional musicians include a daily routine more regularly into their practice and, compared to the average, were more likely to spend 60-90 minutes on their daily routine
In the free response section, numerous individuals stressed the need for flexibility in a daily routine. These remarks articulated a daily routine philosophy that is less “routine” but rather emphasizes components of playing where improvement is desired while supporting their current performing demands. Mental focus and intent were considered to be critically important, and with that goal in mind, a blend of consistency and variety was recommended. Numerous responses advocated the use of a daily routine to develop skill sets, while others warned that a daily routine should not be a crutch and can be overdone.
While it may seem that some participants downplayed the importance of “routine” the statistical data suggests that they hold the belief there are a number of facets of playing that must be developed and maintained in order to display fundamental competency on the tuba or euphonium. While this appears to be a contradiction, there is a solution that can satisfy the need for consistency and variety. The individual can select a set of components that they wish to address and use varied approaches to do so. For example, most tuba and euphonium players feel that it is important to develop their low register. This can be accomplished with etudes, excerpts, exercises, or through playing melodies by ear. The pedagogical goal is the same while variety allows the material to remain fresh and engaging. In essence, the individual can order “ala carte” of the menu and create a practice regiment that meets their needs. In conclusion, no matter what your approach to a daily routine may be, the primary goals are to perform with a beautiful sound and make music at all times!
In the free response section, numerous individuals stressed the need for flexibility in a daily routine. These remarks articulated a daily routine philosophy that is less “routine” but rather emphasizes components of playing where improvement is desired while supporting their current performing demands. Mental focus and intent were considered to be critically important, and with that goal in mind, a blend of consistency and variety was recommended. Numerous responses advocated the use of a daily routine to develop skill sets, while others warned that a daily routine should not be a crutch and can be overdone.
While it may seem that some participants downplayed the importance of “routine” the statistical data suggests that they hold the belief there are a number of facets of playing that must be developed and maintained in order to display fundamental competency on the tuba or euphonium. While this appears to be a contradiction, there is a solution that can satisfy the need for consistency and variety. The individual can select a set of components that they wish to address and use varied approaches to do so. For example, most tuba and euphonium players feel that it is important to develop their low register. This can be accomplished with etudes, excerpts, exercises, or through playing melodies by ear. The pedagogical goal is the same while variety allows the material to remain fresh and engaging. In essence, the individual can order “ala carte” of the menu and create a practice regiment that meets their needs. In conclusion, no matter what your approach to a daily routine may be, the primary goals are to perform with a beautiful sound and make music at all times!