Polyakov Educational Platform
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Printable files, and spreadsheets, to improve the efficiency of your work, as well as to increase your self-awareness.
Recommended Literature
Regardless of which stage of your journey you are currently at, I cannot recommend enough reading these books.
Book Summaries
A few key takeaways from some of the books that I recommend you explore
Recomended Online Sources
The Internet has a vast amount of learning resources. Free doesn't mean worthless, just like education doesn't equal knowledge.
YouTube (FlugelWanderer)
From the year 2023, I started providing educational content on my channel
Stoicism for Musicians
This series presents philosophical ideas for musicians, starting with Stoicism.
ChatGPT for Musicians
Video series that dives deep into the applications and ethical considerations of artificial intelligence in the world of classical music. This series offers a balanced view of the rapidly evolving landscape of AI, focusing on the ChatGPT model. From discussing potential pitfalls like automated plagiarism and misinformation to showcasing the tool’s transformative potential in music theory, composition, and audience engagement, we explore how ChatGPT can serve as both a playground for brainstorming and a versatile assistant. This series aims to educate aspiring musicians and teachers alike, emphasizing the responsible and creative use of AI in academia and beyond.
Unlocking the Musician's Mind
Video Series “Unlocking the Musician’s Mind” allows you to unlock the secret ingredients to musical mastery. We will go beyond the keys and into the depths of our own psyche, discovering powerful psychological tools like Emotional Intelligence, Positive Psychology, and Jungian Shadow Work, that are essential for a thriving career in performance. Over the course of this series, we’ll polish our abilities to forge an authentic, deeply expressive connection with the music that we play. We will discuss topics that will allow you to experience stronger resilience and motivation while building a more prosperous, more fulfilling relationship with your instrument—and your audience.
Downloads
Two more printables are available to you. Fill out the form below, to receive download Practicing Blueprint and Self-Assessment Questionnaire.
Turn your practice into a more Efficient, Intentional and Mindful process
Recommended Literature
The Inner Game of Music by Barry Green and W.Timothy Gallwey
This book dives deep into the psychological aspects of making music, providing insights on overcoming obstacles, achieving focus, and enhancing performance. For music students, it offers valuable techniques to master the mental game, leading to a more fulfilling and expressive musical journey.
The Musician’s Way by Gerald Klickstein
Focused on holistic wellness for musicians, this guide combines practical strategies with insights on achieving peak performance. It is a comprehensive resource for music students looking to balance the rigors of practice with maintaining physical and mental well-being.
Train Your Own Hero by Don Green
Don Green presents a step-by-step approach to personal development and peak performance. This book can be a motivational guide for music students, encouraging them to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
Living in the Sweet Spot by Amy Batzell
This book explores the concept of ‘the sweet spot’ – a state of flow and optimal performance. For music students, understanding and achieving this state can significantly enhance both practice sessions and live performances, leading to greater satisfaction and accomplishment.
Feel the Fear, and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers
Susan Jeffers addresses the common fears and anxieties people face and offers practical solutions for overcoming them. Music students can benefit from her insights to tackle performance anxiety and embrace opportunities with confidence.
Performance Success by Don Green
Don Greene provides strategies for achieving peak performance under pressure, making it a valuable resource for those facing the challenges of public performances. Music students can learn techniques to manage stress and deliver captivating performances.
Deep Work by Cal Newport
Cal Newport discusses the benefits of deep, focused work and provides strategies to achieve it. For music students, mastering the art of deep work can lead to more productive practice sessions and a deeper connection with their craft.
The Perfect Wrong Note by William Westney
William Westney explores the value of mistakes in the learning process, providing a fresh perspective on music practice. This book encourages music students to embrace imperfections and discover the joy and freedom in making music.
Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry
This book delves into the four skills of emotional intelligence and provides strategies for increasing EQ. Music students can benefit by developing emotional awareness, improving relationships, and enhancing their ability to express emotions through music.
Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz
Maxwell Maltz introduces the concept of self-image psychology and its impact on success and happiness. For music students, understanding and enhancing their self-image can be pivotal in boosting confidence and achieving their musical goals.
Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi explores the concept of ‘flow’ – a state of complete immersion and enjoyment in an activity. Understanding and achieving flow can significantly enhance the music students’ practice and performance experience.
The Power of Mindful Learning by Ellen Langer
Ellen Langer presents a new perspective on learning, encouraging mindfulness and creativity. Music students can utilize her insights to foster a mindful approach to practice, leading to enhanced learning and a deeper connection with music.