Developing as a musician requires learning from the greatest pedagogues and performers on your instrument, often taking place through public masterclasses and private lessons. Sometimes these events can be quite pricey as sought-after teachers can charge hundreds of dollars for a lesson. Below are five nuggets of advice that I have gleaned from some immediately recognizable cellists from whom I have had the privilege of learning. I will share their words followed by how I applied them to my own playing. You will notice that a few of these quotes are not original to the teachers from which I first heard the quotes. Where possible, I have attributed the quotes to those believed to be the original author. I do trust that I am not revealing any trade secrets that were meant to be kept for a select few. Enjoy learning from greats! “It’s not the thing; it’s the thing before the thing.” Dr. Melissa Kraut ...