It’s All in Your Mind
Sharon J. Paul
Art & Science in the Choral Rehearsal May 28, 2020 DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780190863760.003.0007 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Intervention | Mindfulness |
| Key points | Argues that mindfulness can be used as a rehearsal tool to sharpen attention and revive flagging rehearsals, and that research supports mindfulness as a strategy for improving focus and handling distractions. Contends that positive rehearsal atmospheres help students avoid learned helplessness, and that focus, positivity, and creative flow in rehearsal carry over into concert performances. |
Abstract
Abstract: This chapter explores strategies to maintain student focus in a world of ever-shrinking attention spans. The author examines the use of mindfulness as a rehearsal tool both to encourage sharpened attention, and to reenergize a lagging rehearsal. The chapter looks at research that supports mindfulness as a significant strategy to improve focus and skillfully deal with distractions, which can thereby yield benefits to rehearsal engagement and enjoyment. This chapter also explores the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere in rehearsal, and ways educators can avoid unintentionally creating an environment of learned helplessness, the situation where students’ repeated, perceived failures discourage future efforts. It discusses how maintaining a high level of focus, positivity, and creative flow in rehearsal will more likely result in concert performances that reflect these qualities as well.