Learn to Level Up
Don’t wait to “be ready.” Pick one skill, make a tiny daily rep, and let new instruments/genres stretch your writing and your range.
'In regard to music, I just think that it's always best to have an attitude of being a perpetual student and always look to learn something new about music, because there's always something new to learn' - David Sanborn
If you can already sing or play, why keep learning? Because staying still risks stagnation. Growth - new techniques, instruments, or genres - makes you a more robust musician and a better songwriter.
Learning a second instrument reframes melody, rhythm, and harmony; exploring outside your genre widens your palette. As a vocalist, extending range (and breathwork) opens setlist options and stage confidence. Progress isn’t magic; it’s reps. Quiet notes become loud notes. Stretch without strain, and schedule the practice so it actually happens.
What to focus on
One skill per sprint (range, timing, right-hand technique, harmony parts, DAW chops).
Genre field trips (study arrangement/mix moves you can steal back home).
Deliberate practice over noodling (target the weak spots, short sessions, frequent).
How to make it stick
Put skill time in your calendar (same slot each day).
Keep reps small (10–20 minutes focused beats 2 hours “someday”).
Track the smallest proof you’re improving (tempo, clean takes, painless high notes).
Activities & exercises (ready to use)
Learn a New Thing
List three music-related skills you want to acquire.
Set a clear by-when for each.
Note how you’ll learn (teacher, course, book, YouTube, peer) and the weekly time you’ll protect.
30-Day Skill Sprint
Pick one skill. Define your finish line (e.g., “G major up to A without strain,” “120 BPM clean eighths,” “write/arrange in 5/4”).
Plan 20 sessions × 15 minutes.
Every 5th session, record a quick check-in take to hear progress.
Genre Scout
Choose one outside-genre track. List 3 arrangement or rhythm ideas you can borrow. Try them in a current song.
Learn to Level Up: choose one 30-day skill sprint and book five 15-minute sessions this week.
If you’d like a simple Skill Sprint Planner (daily rep tracker + progress check-ins) and a Genre Scout worksheet, say the word and I’ll send the templates.
This series, the content and any observations or suggestions made are based on my personal experience, anonymised to protect privacy. Nothing here is financial, legal, or medical advice - please seek professional guidance for your own situation.