In this week’s episode of the ArtistWorks Music Series podcast, ArtistWorks cofounder Patricia Butler sits down with Grammy award-winning master musician, founding member of the Punch Brothers, and ArtistWorks banjo instructor, Noam Pikelny, to discuss the concept of “How to Find Your Own Sound.” Together, they explore the process of developing a unique voice as a player, how to embrace outside influence while still expressing yourself musically, and the importance of focusing on tone as much as note choice and execution when performing. The show is available wherever you listen to podcasts, or you can listen here at ArtistWorks.

LEARN MORE: Want to learn how to play bluegrass banjo and beyond from a master musician like Noam Pikleny? Try a free banjo lesson now!

As we begin the process of learning how to play an instrument, we tend to focus almost solely on playing the correct notes and performing the piece accurately. But, playing the right notes is only one facet of a great performance. The ability to conjure a beautiful tone out of your instrument is a critical skill, and is an important component of musicality that is often overlooked by beginner and advanced players alike.

“The concrete sound that you produce on your instrument is such a huge part of a player’s style,” Noam explains. “The sound that you make on your instrument is so integral to what you’re trying to communicate when playing—it’s your voice.”

While navigating the path to find our own “voice” on our instrument, we often feel compelled to emulate the sound and styles of some of our favorite players that we enjoy listening to. While that’s a great place to start, Noam also encourages his students to take different approaches, and helps guide them through the process of discovering their own unique tonal qualities on the banjo.

“What is your argument? How do you see the world differently on your banjo than I do?” Noam asks. “The search for the answers to those questions is lifelong, but we can’t embark on that journey unless we have the musicianship to identify what we like and what we don’t.”

To learn more about how you can develop your own unique sound and grow as a musician, regardless of the instrument you play, listen to the full podcast with Noam Pikelny here:

If you’re interested in studying the bluegrass banjo and beyond and learning even more about Noam’s approaches to developing a unique sound and style, check out his online banjo lessons right here at ArtistWorks!

ABOUT THE ARTISTWORKS MUSIC SERIES:

On the ArtistWorks Music Series, CEO Patricia Butler speaks with master musicians across all genres who teach at ArtistWorks. Join them as they dive deep into topics like becoming a musician, playing at all skill levels, and the journey of learning music.

Looking to dive into more music podcasts? You’ve come to the right place. Investigate previous episodes where plenty of topics are explored with fantastic, hand-selected, and knowledgeable guests.

Tune in for new episodes released every other Wednesday on all platforms, and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show!

Want to get started on overcoming the roadblock on your musical journey with our online music lessons? Try out some free sample music lessons with any of our master musicians and learn from the best!

READ MORE:

ArtistWorks Music Series - Overcoming Musical Obstaces: Mike Marshall

Celebrating One Year of “Banjo with Noam Pikelny”

ArtistWorks Music Series - Talking with Noam Pikelny