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Extras: Answer Zone

Here are the answers to the most frequently-asked musical questions we've received, or responses to particularly insightful inquiries. We've chosen them to have a permanent space here so they can be read by all. Our experts include former guests and performers of the radio show, along with other "industry insiders."

Don't see your question answered here? Post it in the Info and Advice forum!

Auditions/Competitions: Does winning a music competition automatically mean you're a great artist?

Auditions/Competitions: I have a bunch of auditions coming up and was wondering if you had any advice on how to prepare for them?

Auditions/Competitions: I have heard that competition-winning pianists are picked because their playing is not "controversial." Is this true?

Composing: I really enjoy composing, and I want to incorporate some different styles into my pieces. What's the best way to do this?

Composing: I am writing a piece of music by hand on manuscript paper and it's taking way too long! I want to know, do composers usually write down their compositions by hand on music manuscript or with computer software?

Composing: I enjoy composing, but my output is small because getting what I hear in my head on to paper is difficult. How can I get started with some formal composition training to help me along?

Composing: I have been composing for the last while and I finally wrote a piece that I wish to share with the rest of the world. How does one go about getting his or her music published?

General: I really want to start playing an instrument, but I'm not sure which one I want to go with. Any suggestions on how to choose?

General: I was wondering if there is any way to tell if you'll be successful in a music career?

General: Is playing "by ear" an inborn talent or is it something that comes with time or needs alot of training?

Insecurities/Anxiety: I am starting to get really serious about the piano and practice a lot, but when I was younger I didn't practice much. Does that mean that I will never be good enough to be a professional?

Insecurities/Anxiety: I want to become a professional singer, but everyone I tell this to tells me I'm not good enough or that my dream is stupid. What can I do to make my dream happen?

Insecurities/Anxiety: I am positive that music is what I want to spend the rest of my life doing, but I feel very intimidated by other musicians my age that a better than me. Any advice?

Insecurities/Anxiety: I've studied piano for about 13 years, but have problems with performance anxiety. At the last audition I went to, I was shaking so badly that I couldn't play. Is there anything I do?

Parental Concerns: Both of my children have been playing violin for 10 years and are very advanced. Is there anything thing that I can do to support them, or have they outgrown the need for parental support?

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