Breaking through a ceiling?

Ian Sutton · From: San Francisco, CA

I've finally got to a point where I am getting asked to do a lot of gigs. Probably an average of 3 a week over the last 5 or 6 months, and it's great. I've never been on such form, and am able to play things I never thought I could. All great stuff.

However, in the past month or so, I feel like my playing isn't up to my standards. Almost like I feel stale in a way, and just aren't executing things quite the way I hear them in my head.

Has anyone else been there? Am I working on breaking through the next ceiling? What can I do to continually up my game?

Thanks!
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Cal Sharp · From: the farm in Kornfield Kounty, TN

Taking a few days off has helped me.
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John De Maille · From: On a Mountain in Upstate Halcottsville, N.Y.

Yes, take a few days off. You're getting bored with your own playing. You've probably played every lick in your bag of tricks and you're constantly repeating them. I've been there and done it. You tend to get a little sloppy and don't execute like it's fresh in your mind. A couple of days off and you can recharge your batteries and start new again.

Paul Sutherland · From: Placerville, California

Do something completely different in your practice routine. Work on a tune in a style that you've never done before. And/or try to master a technique you've never, or rarely, used.

But don't stop playing. A couple days off may refresh your mind, but you'll just return to playing the same old S^*t. That's not progress.

Lane Gray · From: Topeka, KS

Get some Jimmy McGriff CDs. Mine them for licks.
Same with Sonny Stitt.
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Dick Wood · From: Springtown Texas, USA

I've never felt that way...well maybe more than a couple of hundred times over the years and then it gets better until I run across something Paul or Tommy does and then it starts all over again.

Youtube is really a great place to pick up new licks and things to try out on the band at the next gig.

Have fun.
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Mark van Allen · From: Watkinsville, Ga. USA

For me, progress has always been like stair steps. Different sizes of treads and risers, but quick noticeable upward progress, followed by a plateau. If the previous progress has been inspiring, the plateau can seem a bit retrograde... I agree with any of the suggestions if they get you to the next riser! Sometimes I've had great luck taking time off from one instrument to focus on another for a bit.
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Ian Sutton · From: San Francisco, CA

The k you all for taking the time to respond. These are all excellent suggestions, and I am very eager to continue moving forward in my playing. To start I think I'll try to find some fresh things to play, and get a new perspective.

Thanks again!
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Some gear.

Dave Grafe · From: Hudson River Valley NY

Whenever I hit that plateau I dig out another jazz standard from my real book for a change in scenery and new challenges. This week it's "When I Fall In Love" last week it was "Take the 'A' Train" and I'm still having fun with the themes from "The Tonight Show" and "I Love Lucy"...

After which I go back to work with a fresh set of possibilities in mind...

mike nolan · From: Forest Hills, NY USA

When I get to one of those points, I, like others here, learn a song that I don't normally play. I really like learning early Beatles songs. Many are highly melodic, usually with interesting twists, and at least one complex chord.

And remember, you can also break through the ceiling by falling through the floor.

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