Whether you’re a big time musician, a new convert or someone who’s been taking drum lessons in Phoenix for years, it’s inevitable that at one point or another in your musical journey you’ll find yourself in a musical rut. The truth is some days your heart just isn’t into it. On those days, every note you play feels flat and lifeless and even practicing your favorite piece is about as much fun to you as getting a tooth pulled at the dentist. When you enter this dark place known as a musical rut, don’t panic. Know that it happens to the best of musicians, and take comfort in the fact that they overcame it and so can you.

The next time you feel your fervor for music start to wane, try one of the following methods to help reignite your musical flame and get you back on track to making tracks in no time.

Seek Out Inspiration

Sometimes all that’s needed to overcome feelings of music monotony is a little inspiration. Feed your inner musician by soaking in the music of others, whether that’s through concerts and performances or by simply exploring iTunes or YouTube to find a new favorite jam. But don’t limit yourself to just the audible world. Books and magazines can often be untapped sources of inspiration, too. Read up on your favorite band or subscribe to a music magazine and you’ll discover a whole new outlook on music. Remember, inspiration is all around you. It’s up to you to seek it out and use it to spur your musical journey.

Challenge Yourself

More often than not, a musical rut is simply caused by boredom, which is a surefire sign that you’ve gotten too comfortable with the music you’re playing and your overall skills. The only solution is to get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. One of the best ways to flex new music muscles and to continue to develop your skills is through music lessons. If you choose to take keyboard, guitar or drum lessons in Scottsdale or elsewhere, be sure to find an instructor with years of experience who will push you to new musical heights and expand your repertoire. After all, there’s no better way to get yourself out of a musical rut than by learning from someone who’s more than likely been through it, too.

Shake Up Your Routine

If you’re already taking drum lessons or any other music lessons in Scottsdale and you still can’t shake that “blah” feeling, why not shake up your routine instead. Change your practice time, the genre of music you play, where you play, the way you play, who you play with, who you play to….change it all! At the very least, be sure to change your practice space. Environment plays a huge part in contributing to our energy and mood, so make sure your practice space is giving out a positive vibe by decorating it with inspirational quotes, interesting artwork, and colorful objects. A boring practice space equals a boring mind and a bored musician.

No matter what, don’t let a little musical rut stop you from doing what you ultimately love. Learn to embrace musical ruts and use them to your advantage. If nothing else, a musical rut is the perfect time to reevaluate yourself as a musician and explore new musical territory. Whatever you do, don’t let the rut rule you, rule the rut instead!