Is Self-Doubt Part of the Process?

akapiratequeen
Sat, 04 Aug 2018 16:41:44 +0000

This is a great thread, thank you! True story: my son went to the Eastman Jazz workshop this summer, which turned out to be quite an elite group of 45 kids. On the first day of ensemble, he texted me from the bathroom — everyone else in his group was so good that he was afraid to come out! This from a highly confident kid who was used to lots of “wins” at home, including all-states, etc.

What finally lured him out was another kid who came in, almost in tears, because he’d been placed in a less advanced ensemble — for the first time ever. My son realized he wasn’t the only
one adjusting his expectations that day.

He ended up loving the program. He also learned that some of the very best players weren’t even applying to conservatories or planning to do this professionally. He now feels less sure he’ll get in everywhere (probably healthy) but more sure he’s good enough to audition anywhere (definitely healthy).

Good luck to your talented D!