AM I SLOWING MYSELF DOWN?

[kymbral]

Hi all, Im kinda new around here, today I decided to ask my question,, I've been practicing on the keyboard for about 1yr and 1/2, I use to take lessons, but I it conflicted with my work schedule, so now I practice by myself. I get alot of help in places like this one, I try to learn something new everyday, I practice constantly..day & night... I am concerned if I am doing the right thing by learning to play songs instead of learning theory and all the other stuff.... I do read and try to understand it all, but I find myself back into learning a particular song...I am I slowing my process down by doing this? Its been so fustrating,,, I WANT TO PLAY NOW!!!.....but I know its gonna take more time than I thought it would, I feel like Im addicted...... can't stop!

[elio]

Hey K, welcome to LGM.

No, I don't think what you're doing is all wrong. What you are doing is keeping the fire in your belly alive. You have to have that yearning, that desire that pushes you to practice. If all you do is study "dry" theory, that fire will go out and you'll find yourself not practicing anymore.

Try and find a balance, do learn theory every now and again, but spend time on the keys. Challenge yourself, always try to do things that seem to hard for you, don't settle for the easy stuff.

Before you know it you'll get there, I am a witness to that. Be encouraged.

Blessings

[T-Block]

My advice is to stop concentrating on learning songs so much and learn the techniques for the song u are playing.  By technique I mean progressions.  Progressions will advance you faster than just learning a song here and there.  Are you slowing yourself down?  Not necessarily, but u can learn faster through knowing theory.  I used to be just like u, I used to get so frustrated cuz I hear people playing all good and I am didn't think I was up to their level.  I wanted it to just come over night, but I had to realize that it will take time.  My dad preached a message one day saying success can't be rushed, u have to be patient.

[MikeGee]

I've had this same question for myself. Do I learn theory and develop my skills or do I spend time learning songs. so I just fo 50/50