Tip: Empty Your Cup

EMPTY YOUR CUP verb /em(p)-tē_yu̇r_ˈkəp/ 1. The act of removing any previous habits or preconception from a vessel 2. to edit out tendencies for the sake of learning new skills or techniques Synonyms: Learning; Success  Antonyms: Stagnation; Disappointment

  I picked this little expression up from my high school band director. He would say whenever you're getting a ton of new information thrown at you it's always best to "empty your cup." This means that you'll put aside all your old information, technique, and preconceived notions. This way you're able to take in 100% of what you're learning because you're not fighting against the grain anymore. If you can learn this skill you'll see yourself become a much better student, which means everything about your playing will be able to develop much quicker. I'm pretty that's a win-win situation for students and teachers...