As performing artist, we train and practice a lot. Then we do it again, and again, and again, until we get it right. Then we do it again just to make sure we have it right. This is the way it is if you want to be at the top of your game, and if you want to have a career as a performing artists, you’d better be at the top of your game. There’s plenty of others out there that will take your coveted spot, if you coast, just for a moment.

A lot of what compares are the things that can be measured, empirically, scientifically. Often what this means is that others are checking your technique. Comparing it to their own, to see if you’re better than them.

What is technique? A way to compete? A way to prove skill? Hardly.

We need to understand the foundation of technique in any art – be it performing, visual, martial, or even medical – is to better enhance certain aspects of art. For example, we study bowing technique on a stringed instrument, or armature on a brass instrument. Why? To make better sound, of course! Dancers practice their techniques, in part to help build muscle strength. Again, why? To make to movements more graceful, more beautiful.

Practice of technique for the art is to be able to better express that art, to better convey the emotion, and to be able to speak better as an artist. We should always remember that the art, not the technique is the end result. Technique is just a means to that end.

Thanks for reading my humble opinion!