“To be prepared against surprise is to be trained. To be prepared for surprise is to be educated” - James P. Carse, Finite and Infinite Games
This quote has filled my thoughts since I heard it at an Infinite Play Facilitation Class in January. In reflecting on my approach to playing I was definitely in the trained camp. I didn’t want to be surprised in performance. I now see how ‘training” negates the beautiful idea of play.
Have you ever felt like the person in this image in performance?
What could being educated look like for a musician? How about filling your expressive palette with all varieties of sound, colors, dynamics, articulation, and reliable technical facility? This full palette, allows one to be responsive. For instance, hearing a note or phrase differently is an opportunity to respond in the moment by drawing from your expressive palette. Being responsive is playful.
There are no guarantees in live performance. Things happen, we are human after all. Use your time to fill your expressive palette. Let your imagination run free for a bit and see what you uncover. Your palette can be as unique as you are.
Be curious.