Annika-Coyle-Chapters1&2

 Chapter 1

Summary: In the first chapter of The Talent Code, Daniel Coyle sets the foundation for the idea that talent is grown, not born. Coyle also introduces the sweet spot--the gap between current abilities and the logical next step--and deep practice.

Application: In class, it was interesting to discuss chicken wire harvards and the optimal spaces for our own deep practice. I live in a tiny apartment with a roommate, so it’s hard for me to do deep practice at home, so my optimal space for deep practice is probably a practice room on campus! I’ve also always been told that talent is innate or congenial. Either you’re born with it, or you’re not. It makes me feel very excited to know that it can be grown!

Chapter 2

Summary: In chapter 2, Coyle opens up the conversation about myelin and how it relates to growing talent. Myelin is created when neurons fire--it insulates the neural circuits. When musicians (or people in any other craft, for that matter) repeat an action, neurons are fired and myelin is grown to help those neurons fire faster.

Application: As musicians, we create myelin when we play, sing, or practice. That’s how we improve! Wrong signals can grow myelin sheaths, too, so it’s important to slow down and ensure we are doing things correctly to make them stronger!