Sounds like a good plan Steve. I also plan on using a more structured approach. I’ve used the fact that I have limited time as a reason to simply play exercises from memory without a metronome or pre-written plan and no notes. I think it would be better if I put more structure into my practice, yet still allow some free time in which I play music freely, spontaneously, etc. BUT, I also think it’s important to work on music in a structured way (i.e. with a metronome, something written, not just a melody from memory) that can be worked on, refined (different elements like dynamics, articulation, timing, phrasing, breath control, etc.). I think we’ll get farther faster if we take that approach.

I think it’s important to listen to our lips/bodies and not push too hard too fast. But, as long as we’re not doing anything extreme it is good to push ourselves to our limit to see how far we can go, allow ourselves to recover then hopefully eventually be able to push through further to another level of ability.

I think I’m going to check out the Harmonic Slur challenge this weekend and a Windworks lesson or two and maybe try to play something from start to finish–something I can work on overtime and master.

Good luck and have a great weekend.