PJ4: The Finish Line

Excerpt 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vw63zT7ZWLo&feature=youtu.be
Excerpt 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuevsCw7_zc&feature=youtu.be

From journal 1, I have improved tremendously. My accuracy and style improved the most, in my opinion. However, my articulation and rhythm could be improved to achieve that artist level. Throughout this process, I have tried many practice methods. The one that worked well for me was when I play slowly and count carefully to get the rhythm right. Also, I played a measure that I was having trouble with multiple times to get the hang of it. Also, I played before and after the excerpt to get into the style of the piece. Through band practices, my critical listening skills have honed and noticed many other different parts happening at the same time as mine. When they happen and they are the melody, I back down and vice versa. The ascending scales of the excerpts sound the best when they are played with increasing dynamics and I have learned this through developing my critical listening skills to help me fit well into the band.