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Chris Anderson

Why You Should Never Cut Corners When Learning A New Instrument (or skill)

It’s great if you want to learn a specific song and you can learn how to do that.  But that may be the only thing you can do…you’ll possibly become a one trick pony.   Being thorough with your music learning will give you more scope for the future but this will take time and patience.  Cutting corners when learning a new musical instrument might seem tempting, especially if you're eager to progress quickly or if certain aspects of learning seem challenging.  I’m all for being thorough and there are several reasons why it's advisable not to take shortcuts in your musical education.


  • Builds a Weak Foundation:

  • Skipping fundamental skills or neglecting foundational concepts can result in a weak musical foundation. Without a solid base, it becomes more challenging to tackle advanced techniques and repertoire.

  • Limits Musical Understanding:

  • Learning an instrument involves more than just playing notes. It includes understanding musical theory, ear training, and developing a sense of musicality. Cutting corners may limit your overall comprehension of the music.

  • Increases the Risk of Bad Habits:

  • Rushing through learning processes may lead to the development of bad habits, such as poor posture, incorrect fingerings, or improper breathing techniques. These habits can be difficult to break and may hinder your progress in the long run.

  • Compromises Technique:

  • Technique is crucial in playing an instrument. Skipping essential exercises or not paying attention to proper technique may result in sloppy playing, limited expressiveness, and potential physical strain or injury.

  • Impacts Musical Expression:

  • Learning to play an instrument is not just about reproducing notes. It's about expressing emotions and conveying the intended mood of the music. Cutting corners can hinder your ability to fully express yourself musically.

  • Reduces Long-Term Satisfaction:

  • Achieving mastery and proficiency in an instrument is a fulfilling and satisfying experience. Cutting corners may lead to a lack of personal accomplishment and reduce the joy derived from playing.

  • Increases Frustration:

  • Shortcuts may lead to frustration when you encounter difficulties later on that could have been avoided with proper foundational learning. Taking the time to learn each step thoroughly can contribute to a more enjoyable and less stressful musical journey.

  • Affects Overall Progress:

  • Learning to play an instrument is a cumulative process. Each skill and concept builds on the ones that came before. Cutting corners may disrupt this progression, making it harder to advance in a logical and effective manner.

  • Diminishes the Learning Experience:

  • Learning a musical instrument is a multifaceted and enriching experience. Skipping essential elements may result in a diminished overall learning experience, depriving you of the joy of discovering and mastering new aspects of music.

  • Undermines Musical Integrity:

  • Music is an art form that demands dedication, discipline, and respect for the craft. Cutting corners can undermine the integrity of your musical education, as it may reflect a lack of commitment to the art and its traditions.


Taking the time to learn an instrument thoroughly and comprehensively pays off in the long run. It contributes to a more well-rounded and fulfilling musical journey, allowing you to reach your full potential as a musician.

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