As musicians, we pour our hearts into our craft, often pushing our bodies to their limits in pursuit of that perfect performance. But this dedication can come at a cost – playing-related injuries are more common than many realize.

From repetitive strain injuries in guitarists and pianists to embouchure problems in wind players, our instruments can become sources of physical stress. Drummers face unique challenges with their ankles and wrists, violinists battle neck and shoulder tension, and vocalists can develop vocal cord issues from improper technique or overuse.

The key to longevity in music lies in prevention. Physical fitness isn’t just for athletes – musicians are athletes too. Regular stretching routines, especially targeting the specific muscle groups your instrument demands, can prevent many common injuries. Good nutrition fuels both your brain and body for optimal performance, while adequate sleep allows for proper muscle recovery and mental clarity.

Perhaps most importantly, avoiding harmful addictions is crucial. While substances might seem to enhance creativity temporarily, they ultimately impair judgment, coordination, and healing. Your body is your instrument’s partner – treat it with respect.

Remember, you’re probably already addicted to music, otherwise why are you here on my website reading my blog? That’s the only addiction that should drive your musical journey. Listen to your body, take breaks when needed, and invest in proper technique and ergonomics. Your future self will thank you for taking care of the vessel that brings your musical dreams to life.

I’m excited to share some updates on what I’ve been working on and how we can make music together.

“Without Words” Now Available

My latest album, “Without Words,” is now on sale at Bandcamp! This collection represents a deeply personal musical journey that speaks through melody and rhythm rather than lyrics. Each track tells its own story, inviting listeners to create their own interpretations and emotional connections. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or discovering my music for the first time, I think you’ll find something meaningful in these instrumental compositions. Check it out at drtimothyvancleave.bandcamp.com/album/without-words.

Private Lessons Available

Are you looking to develop your musical skills? I’m currently accepting students for private drum, percussion, and piano lessons. My teaching approach focuses on building solid fundamentals while nurturing each student’s unique musical voice and interests. From complete beginners to advanced players looking to refine their technique, I work with musicians at every level. You can view my current teaching schedule and book lessons at timothy-van-cleave.square.site.

Session Work and Live Performance

I’m also available for session work and live performances on drums, vibes, or keys. Whether you’re recording in the studio or need a versatile musician for live shows, I bring professionalism and creativity to bands and ensembles of all genres and sizes. Interested in collaborating? Reach out to me on Instagram or Threads @tvc_music to discuss your project.

Let’s make music together!

The Sound of Two Tragedies

We all carried two stories through 2020 and 2021: the collective nightmare we shared and the personal hell we couldn’t talk about. As a performing artist, I watched live music die overnight while wrestling with my own crisis that words couldn’t touch. The stages went dark, the income disappeared, and suddenly making music became the only language that made sense when everything else failed.

Words try to be proof theories assertions manipulation persuasion truth lies

But sound

reveals the truth in ways

language

never could

“Without Words” emerged from that collision of universal and intimate pain. Twenty-three minutes of what it actually sounds like when your world collapses twice simultaneously. I abandoned lyrics entirely because words felt like bullshit. Inadequate tools trying to measure the unmeasurable. Instead, I let sound carry what language couldn’t: the dense, jarring reality of crisis giving way to something breathable and spacious. This isn’t background music for your commute. It’s an invitation to sit with whatever you’ve been avoiding, to let music do what words never could.

Are you ready to stop hiding behind language? Ready to face twenty-three minutes with just you and sound?

Listen to “Without Words”: https://drtimothyvancleave.bandcamp.com/album/without-words

Ever listen to a song and wish you could play it just like that? One of the most powerful ways to build your ears, technique, and memory is transcription—learning music by ear, one note at a time.

I know, I’ve posted about this on social media before, and it didn’t get much traction. But I want to say it again: students, this is for YOU. Not pros. Not virtuosos. Just people who want to get better.

The goal isn’t perfection. It’s retention. You want the tune to stick in your memory like your favorite lyric or chorus. Here’s how to make that happen:

• Pick a short section. 4–8 bars is plenty. Don’t overwhelm yourself.
• Listen on repeat. Loop it until it starts living in your head.
• Sing it. If you can’t sing it, you probably can’t play it.
• Figure it out slowly. Use your instrument and your ear, not a chart.
• Play along. Once you’ve got it, try matching the original recording.
• Revisit later. The next day, try again—this helps lock it in.

Transcription isn’t magic—it’s repetition. But it builds serious skills.