The Bulletproof Musician Why Practicing Too Much Could Actually Increase Errors
I often get questions about specific topics or issues that haven't already been covered in a podcast episode. Today's episode is devoted to a question that has come up a fair bit.
Specifically, it's about staying focused in the practice room. And in particular, for those who have been diagnosed with ADHD.
The study compares a group of college students who practice for 80 repetitions with a group that practices for 160. The main question being - how much additional benefit does practicing twice as much have when it comes to speed and accuracy?
And does this apply equally to students who have been diagnosed with ADHD and those who are non-ADHD?
Turns out the findings apply to both ADHD and non-ADHD populations. Click below for all the nerdy details:
Why Practicing Too Much Could Actually Increase Errors
* * *
Have you been feeling a little stuck or stagnant in the practice room? Or has performance anxiety and the gap between practice and performance been a nagging issue that hasn’t changed, no matter how well you've prepared for performances, auditions - and even lessons?
If you’ve been wanting to experience more joy in the practice room and play more like yourself on stage, but haven’t been quite sure how to make that happen, starting June 10, 2025, I’ll be teaching a live, online, accelerated 2-week class on the most essential mental skills and practice strategies that can make a difference in your practicing and performing.
We’ll meet twice a week via Zoom and work on a series of exercises and techniques in four essential skill areas (effective practice, managing anxiety, focus, and confidence), together as a group. And to make sure the concepts become consistent habits, I'll show you how to gently integrate these new skills into your (or your students’) daily practice through bite-sized practice challenges alongside a supportive group of practice buddies from around the world. Registration is open now through 11:59pm on Sunday, June 8th.
Over 2000 musicians, educators, and students and learners of all ages have participated in the course to date. You can find out what alumni are saying, and sign up to join Cohort 23 at: