Episode 16 - How We Approach Learning Art and Music

With so many different ways to approach learning art and music (or any craft, for that matter), we decided to share how we each think about it. We explore how our approaches have differed—while still serving us on each of our journeys—and offer some suggestions to help listeners find their own way through art or music. Robyn celebrates a website win and Michelle feels at home being back in her routine. 

Recorded on March 23rd, 2024

Timestamps:

Intro [0:29] Robyn's week [0:45] Michelle's week [9:48] Robyn's approach to learning art [21:14] Learning methodically versus as you go [22:10] Find someone who is in your corner [26:13] How Michelle thinks about learning music [35:23] Rant regrets [36:53] There is no key to unlocking music [40:11] Defining broader categories when learning music [43:39] Proficiency [45:59] The difference between technique and techniques [46:10] Relating to visual art [48:27] Musicianship [49:06] Artistry [52:53] Where to focus when you're starting out [58:08] Make music with others [1:07:27] Developing taste [1:10:16] Building range [1:22:34] Some final advice [1:25:39] Robyn's week ahead [1:38:04] Michelle's week ahead: 1:39:28] Outro [1:40:15]

Resources, references, and further exploration:

Michelle’s blog post, related to this episode, on the three areas of musical development: https://www.michellemonettemusic.com/post/the-three-areas-of-musical-development

How to Listen to Jazz by Ted Gioia: https://www.tedgioia.com/books-and-recordings

What to Listen For in Music by Aaron Copland: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/303445/what-to-listen-for-in-music-by-aaron-copland/

Slow Productivity by Cal Newport: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/722732/slow-productivity-by-cal-newport/

Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits

Quotes, ideas, and insights referenced:

“Don’t be overheard complaining…Not even to yourself.” — Marcus Aurelius, 8.9

Links:

Learn more about Robyn at https://www.robynlester.com/

Follow Robyn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynlester.art/

Learn more about Michelle at https://www.michellemonettemusic.com/

Follow Stream of Art on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/streamofartpodcast/

Please feel free to send questions and comments to [e-mail]

Connect with like-minded artists and creatives at our Discord server: https://discord.gg/mHa8GSQqsv

Credits:

Podcast art by: Robyn Lester

Theme music by: Michelle Monette

Podcast editing by: Michelle Monette