I believe that words have power. Whether I’m teaching or coaching or practicing on my own, I try to use words to communicate my meaning clearly and positively and to evoke the most productive images possible. What does this have to do with ‘practice vs rehearsal?’
While on a break from orchestra rehearsal this week I overheard a cell phone conversation where the orchestra member was telling her conversation partner that she was ‘at practice.’ Why does this make me crazy? Because ‘practice’ is what musicians do at home to prepare for ‘rehearsal.’ Individual issues of technique, phrasing, tone, etc. are the subject of practice sessions. We practice so we can make the most of the always too-limited time we have to rehearse. ‘Rehearsal’ is for bringing the ensemble together, adjusting balance, correcting intonation in context, learning how to fit all the different parts together. And everyone knows that insufficient practice leads to unproductive rehearsal.
The orchestra member that I am referring to is a good player and works hard in rehearsal, so it is not that I have a problem with her personally. But words do have an impact on attitude and perception. Both words suggest effort being made, but for some reason ‘rehearsal’ is bigger, weightier, more significant. I have similar reactions when people refer to symphonies as ‘songs.’ When I think about it, I’m not sure the snobbier term ‘piece’ is any better, but it does help differentiate art music from pop. If you want to be taken seriously, use the right words. And now go practice for your next rehearsal!