On the matter of Mastery..

 

I’ve recently finished reading a fascinating book called, Mastery by George Leonard and it discusses the long haul involved in learning anything that’s difficult to truly master.

Although most of the time one can find themselves apparently not progressing (he calls this the plateau), with consistent practise going over the finer details with repetition, you actually are progressing with the reoccurring intervals of an upward leap in your chosen skill; suddenly something clicks and feels easier.

As a musician keen to continue my own artistic journey for the rest of my life, it’s an absorbing read with plenty of flashes of self recognition in the descriptions of the different learning experiences that people have as well as the familiar pitfalls.

Persistence is the key, and although there are rewards in the momentary advancements, the actual process is, in itself, a means to an end.

Highly recommended!


Martin Hummel

Martin is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in managing communications for brands on a global, regional and local basis across multiple disciplines and business sectors. He has led a range of communications agencies as Chief Executive, as well as founding and directing start-up businesses that include consulting, talent management and recorded music.


Martin has worked with some of the most respected companies/brands in the world (Apple, GM, L’Oréal, MasterCard, Nestlé, P&G, PepsiCo, Unilever) and has interacted with a number of Fortune 500 CEOs. His key strengths include leadership skills, shaping businesses, developing talent and delivering results.


Music has been an integral part of Martin’s entire life. Since his early days as a musician, Martin staged concerts as a teenager (featuring Elton John), worked in various music clubs and was a DJ/Music Director in professional radio. For 17 years, he was responsible for Pepsi-Cola’s international communications, where he worked with the likes of Michael Jackson, Madonna, Tina Turner, The Spice Girls, Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Robbie Williams and Pink, amongst many others.

 

Martin is a gun for hire in the consulting business (Ubuntu Ideas). He manages a portfolio of jazz artists (Ubuntu Talent) and recently co-founded an independent record label (Ubuntu Music).


He is absolutely passionate about creativity, digital technology and the power of music to touch peoples’ lives and to bring the world together.


Martin has lived/worked in five cities on three continents. He is married, with two daughters, and resides in London.


You will often find him at live shows, whatever the time of the day or night, looking for the next Bird, Dizzy, Esperanza, Charlie, Miles, Ron, Ella, Art or Chet.