Sometimes it can be difficult to know who encourages us and who brings us down. Those we're closest to have our trust, so when they are discouraging it can be hard to notice. Which is why as a musician it is very important to have a wide range of communication and influences beyond your music teacher and family. Whether this means chatting with other musicians online or "busking" one afternoon on a busy street corner, it's important to get feedback from those outside your c