Excellence through failure: How mistakes revolutionise the game

Mistakes as an Essential Part of Learning

Mistakes are an inseparable part of learning, yet in instrumental lessons—particularly in classical music—they are often viewed negatively. Perfection takes center stage, while the potential inherent in mistakes is overlooked. But what if we were to see mistakes not as obstacles but as signposts guiding the way?

The organ, with its complexity and the high demands it places on technique and discipline, provides an ideal foundation for developing a new culture of embracing mistakes. This project demonstrates how mistakes do not hinder playing but instead revolutionize it—through creativity, self-reflection, and new pedagogical approaches.

Rethinking Mistakes: A Chance, Not a Shame

Mistakes often have a bad reputation in music pedagogy. However, a modern culture of embracing mistakes recognizes them as indispensable building blocks of learning. Mistakes offer not only opportunities for correction but also a chance to experiment creatively and develop innovative problem-solving strategies.

As Silke Kruse-Weber emphasizes, the strength of a mistake-friendly pedagogy lies in encouraging students to analyze their mistakes and learn from them. Mistakes become a tool for improving technique and expression, as well as discovering new approaches to playing.

Methodology: Learning Through Observation and Reflection

A central element of this project involves interviews with experienced organ professors, offering insights into their strategies for dealing with mistakes:

• How do they define “mistakes” in organ lessons?

• How do their approaches differ between beginners and advanced students?

• What role do reflection and feedback play in learning from mistakes?

These conversations illustrate how to create a learning environment where mistakes are not seen as failures but as valuable experiences.

Video Analysis for Diagnosing Mistakes

Video recordings serve as another important tool. Three camera perspectives—focused on hands, feet, and posture—capture specific sources of errors such as incorrect finger positioning or non-ergonomic body alignment.

By analyzing the videos together, students learn to identify their mistakes and make independent corrections. This visual feedback makes the learning process tangible and strengthens self-reflection.

A New Culture of Mistakes in Teaching

The interviews and video analyses provide practical teaching approaches that embrace mistakes as learning opportunities:

• Accepting and Utilizing Mistakes: Mistakes are not failures but a natural part of the learning process.

• Promoting Self-Reflection: Students learn to analyze their mistakes and develop independent solutions.

• Targeted Corrections: Feedback is precise and supportive, fostering sustainable progress.

Psychological Aspects: Reducing Fear, Building Trust

The fear of making mistakes can hinder students from reaching their full potential. A supportive teaching environment that views mistakes as opportunities helps alleviate this fear.

Helmut Möller describes how a mistake-friendly atmosphere not only enhances learning motivation but also builds resilience and self-confidence. When students believe they can correct their mistakes, they develop a positive attitude toward challenges.

Creativity Through Mistakes: The Path to Excellence

Mistakes can not only be corrected but also used creatively. They provide an opportunity to explore new musical approaches and expand personal expression. Improvisation and experimental learning play a key role in this process.

As Silke Kruse-Weber demonstrates, mistakes can lead to new interpretations and innovative solutions. This perspective promotes not only technical precision but also artistic freedom.

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Conclusion: Mistakes as a Guide to Success

A modern culture of embracing mistakes transforms instrumental teaching. Mistakes are no longer obstacles but valuable learning moments that enhance technique, expression, and creativity.

This project demonstrates that a nuanced approach to mistakes not only improves students' skills but also builds their self-confidence. By viewing mistakes as opportunities, we create a new, productive learning culture—unlocking new pathways to excellence in playing.