Skill Mastery

Unlocking Improvisation as a Skill: Improvisation is a skill that can be mastered. With targeted direction, expert guidance, and continuous motivation, anyone can evolve into a skilled improviser.

Empowering Growth with "Mind To Music": Designed to ignite a passion for musical growth, "Mind to Music" offers more than just lessons; it provides a roadmap. We equip musicians with the essential guidance, insights, and encouragement needed to flourish. Our program is a catalyst for transformation, empowering you to navigate the journey of improvisation with confidence and creativity.

Why "Mind To Music"?

Program Features

Personalized Feedback: Accelerate your musical journey with the added advantage of optional quizzes designed to test and solidify your understanding, complemented by exclusive access to a vibrant community of fellow enthusiasts. Here, you can share your performances and receive positive, constructive feedback that not only celebrates your progress but also guides your improvement. 

Community Support: Immerse yourself in a thriving community of passionate individuals, just like you, who are on a journey to master their musical talents. As a member, you'll gain access to an ever-expanding repository of knowledge, insights, and tips shared by experts and peers alike. This dynamic exchange of information not only enriches your learning experience but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual growth.

What this program is not

This is not a replacement, substitution, or shortcut to becoming a better musician. "Mind To Music" is guide for becoming a more knowledgeable and skillful improviser. It is meant to make the time you spend more productive and meaningful. You will still need dedication if you wish to grow.

Meet Your Instructor

Hello! I'm Drex Martinek, and I'm eager to uncover the vast potential within each of us through music. My mission is to ignite that spark of inspiration and passion for music that has profoundly transformed my life.

Growing Up With Music

Music has been a constant companion throughout my life, guiding me through a journey across various instruments. My initial dream of becoming a drummer took an unexpected turn in 5th grade when I chose the trombone. By 6th grade, I was introduced to the vibrant world of Jazz through my middle school's jazz band, where I quickly developed a passion for improvisation and solo performances.

High school marked a pivotal period in my musical development. It was then that I began to approach music with a newfound seriousness, regularly performing gigs and playing with my first band, the TriTones. This period was rich with growth, as I built lasting connections with local musicians and refined my skills. In my senior year, joining the 147th Army band solidified my commitment to pursuing music as a career.

Musical Career

My Teaching Phylosophy

My teaching philosophy centers on delving into the 'why' and 'how' behind musical concepts, rather than merely instructing on the 'how-to.' I'm convinced that a deep understanding of music's underlying principles not only enriches knowledge but also empowers you to forge your own unique musical path. While many educators might emphasize adhering to a strict set of rules or delineate what is permissible in certain musical contexts, I advocate for a more exploratory approach. By grasping the essence of the music you engage with, you're equipped to make informed, creative decisions. This understanding propels you far beyond the confines of a rigid "do this, don't do that" mentality, fostering a more profound and expansive development in your musical journey.

I'm looking forward to sharing this musical adventure with you.

FAQ

What is music improvisation, and why is it important?

Music Improvisation is the spontaniouse composition of musical ideas. It is a skill that demonstrates a deep understanding of musical functions and abilities. This means that increasing your improvisation abilities will in turn expand on your musical knowledge and greatly benefit overall musicianship. Every serious musician should have some level of improvisational knowledge.

Do I need prior musical experience to join this program?

This program is designed with the assumption that you have basic knowledge on how to play your instrument. This program is NOT to teach you how to play your instrument, it is to teach you improvisation. That said, this program IS designed for anyone who has zero Improvisation experience and the program has the complete resources needed for improvisation noobies.

What instruments can I use in this program?

Although this program is created from the perspective of a trombonist, it has been designed to fit the needs of any wind player.

How much time should I dedicate to practice outside of the program?

There is no replacement for practice, but you CAN make your practice more productive and meaningful. "Mind To Music" is an aid towards your musical progress, but all good musicians come from a consistent and dedicated practice routine. In other words, you will still need to maintain a consistent practice routine, but "Mind To Music" will give you more meaningful and productive things to practice.