Ep. 42: Nikki Abissi

Written By Christopher Still

Guest: Nikki Abissi, professional trombonist

Key Topics:

  • Nikki's musical journey from growing up around NYC to attending Juilliard, New World Symphony, and becoming an orchestral musician

  • Dealing with performance anxiety, negative self-talk, and the importance of mindset work

  • The "3 envelope" audition preparation strategy

  • Bringing a sense of "play" back into music practice

  • Losing your professional identity and how to rebuild

  • Nikki's invention of the "Extend Bone" slide extension device

  • Being newly diagnosed with ADHD as an adult

  • The value of normalizing struggles and being vulnerable

Takeaways:

  • Have strategies and techniques for audition prep beyond just the music

  • Find ways to quiet the analytical brain and focus on performing

  • Titles don't matter as much as value you provide - build an authentic platform

  • Normalize discussing mental health, mindset, and personal struggles

  • Read "Peak" by Anders Ericsson on developing expertise deliberatively

Memorable Quotes: "My other superpower is I don't have a problem being vulnerable and honest." "Your title doesn't matter. What matters is can you solve a problem for someone."

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Sponsor Message: This episode is brought to you by the Yamaha Corporation of America.

Visit Yamaha Corporation of America to learn more about their products and services.

 

Christopher Still https://www.honestypill.com
Next

Ep. 41: Cami McLaren