As musicians, we spend a huge chunk of our time practicing, which is why it is important to build a rehearsal space that we feel relaxed in and can truly call our own. Practice spaces should, first and foremost, be comfortable, as well as having the ability to inspire, motivate and boost our creativity.
We discuss several tips on how to set up your perfect artistic temple.
Prioritise your comfort
There is nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable when trying to practice, you’ll end up irritated and simply won’t produce your best music. Creating a rehearsal space with comfort in mind is fairly straightforward, as long as you choose an area with decent lighting and the ability to control the temperature of the room. Nobody wants to practice in a freezing cold garage in the middle of winter! Similarly, a room that gets unbearably hot and stuffy isn’t ideal either.
If you’re a DJ, violinist or even studying music production classes, then you might find yourself sitting down to practice for the most part, which is why investing in a high-quality chair is extremely beneficial. One that is comfortable, supports your body in all the right places and has the ability to let you move around a fair bit, is key. Ergonomic chairs tend to be a little on the pricey side, but the beneficial elements that come with them mean they are worth every penny.
Remove all distractions
We wouldn’t carry out our jobs in front of the TV or with our Xbox within arm’s reach, and the same rules should apply when practicing music. In order to fully “get in the zone”, our space needs to be free from day-to-day distractions so that we can really focus our attention on the music. If your rehearsal space is located in your bedroom, hide the games, books and electronic devices so you can give your music the quality time it deserves.
If you are lucky enough to have a whole room dedicated to your craft, keep the space clutter-free, with only you and your music supplies for company. You may also want to think about placing a sign on the door, which warns family members or flat mates when you are practicing so they can leave you in peace, making sure not to disturb you mid-session.
Decorate to inspire
Our environment often reflects how we feel, which is why you should decorate your space in a way that inspires creativity and boosts happiness. Painting the room in your favourite colour or adorning the walls with a few pictures of your musical idol could help motivate you to reach your full potential.
Moreover, studies have shown that plants can help increase our productivity, reduce stress levels and keep us relaxed overall. As such, consider placing some lovely greenery in your practice area – just be sure to water them regularly!
Whichever way you choose to decorate your artistic hub, just remember not to over-crowd it with lots of distractions – in creative spaces, minimalist décor tends to lead to better work output.
