Now that the new year is in full swing, I’ve had some time to think about the goals I have for myself. In my post, Patience, Productivity, and Presence, I talked about those 3 words in more detail and how they will guide me through the new year. Regarding my goals for myself, I’m taking things one step at a time.

This year, I want to focus on improving my musical skills. Sometimes it’s easy to get comfortable with playing the same strum patterns on guitar and using auto accompaniment on keyboard (does anyone else do that?) So this year I’m going to push myself to go outside of my comfort zone – musically. I don’t believe in big, lofty resolutions, because those are usually out the window by February. But I am going to set some reasonable goals for myself musically for the first six months of the year. That’s it!

January
Become a Ukulele Master!

Ukuleles are probably the hottest instrument out there right now. I jumped on the bandwagon a few years ago when I purchased one for UCP and received two more as gifts! I know a few chords, but I am going to push myself to learn more new chords. Are you looking to do the same thing? Ukulele Hunt , Ukulele Songs  and Dr. Uke are some great resources!

February
Break Out of My Guitar Rut

Breaking out of my guitar rut means learning new strum patterns. If you are trying to do this as well, check out my videos – Groovy Guitar Strums Part 1 and  Groovy Guitar Strums Part 2. Breaking out of my guitar rut also means learning new chords and progressions. Rachel See Smith shared an excellent resource on her Pinterest page…Jazz Guitar Lessons.net I can’t wait to jump in!

March
Add More Multicultural Songs to My Repertoire

This goal comes at the perfect time. At UCP we typically celebrate Multicultural Day during this month and I always struggle a bit with what songs to include in our musical performance. I just picked up a great resource which should help me out this year: Wee Sing Around the World. I have always loved the Wee Sing collection and this should be a great addition to my collection.

April
Spice Up My Piano Playing

I love playing the piano, but I need to spice it up a bit. Here’s where I’m going to start: Online Blues Piano Lessons.

May
Dust Off My Primary Instrument

Are you guilty of this too – keeping your primary instrument packed away? I studied clarinet in college and haven’t played it much since then. This month I’m going to dust it off and use it more in my sessions than ever before. I’ve already started brainstorming new and creative ways to use it…

June
Learn a  Brand NEW Instrument

Yikes, sounds scary! I’ll be sure to let you know which instrument I decide to learn! I’m excited for this one…

Do YOU have any musical goals for yourself this year (or half year)?