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Blog

I’m Sarah –

I write about creative practice, burnout, identity, and what it actually takes to build a musical life — honestly, imperfectly, and without burning out along the way.

This is a space for musicians who are done waiting for the "right time" to take their craft seriously.

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Rebellion: When the Creative Self Fights Back
Creative Process & Growth Sarah Stumböck Creative Process & Growth Sarah Stumböck

Rebellion: When the Creative Self Fights Back

Some days creativity flows with ease, and other days it feels stolen by endless to-dos and obligations. On those days, anger rises … not as destruction, but as rebellion. In this piece, I explore how that anger is actually the voice of the neglected creative self, demanding space, and how we can learn to channel it into meaningful expression instead of repression.

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The Gig: Redefining Success Beyond Perfection
Creative Process & Growth Sarah Stumböck Creative Process & Growth Sarah Stumböck

The Gig: Redefining Success Beyond Perfection

When I led my very first Singing Circle in front of a group of strangers, in an unfamiliar setting, I entered it with the idea, that success meant perfection. What I learned instead was far more liberating: success is showing up honestly, learning as you go, and refusing to punish yourself for imperfections. Redefining success isn’t just about music: it’s about building resilience, flow, and trust in your own creative path.

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Painting as a Teacher
Creative Process & Growth Sarah Stumböck Creative Process & Growth Sarah Stumböck

Painting as a Teacher

Perfectionism is the silent killer of creativity. Great artists didn’t create masterpieces every time—they created constantly, trusting the process. True originality comes not from flawless output, but from curiosity, courage, and the willingness to be imperfect. Today I describe how painting is helping me be imperfect in music.

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You’re Not Behind — You’re Becoming: A Love Letter to the Slow-Burning Musician
Creative Process & Growth Sarah Stumböck Creative Process & Growth Sarah Stumböck

You’re Not Behind — You’re Becoming: A Love Letter to the Slow-Burning Musician

Feeling overwhelmed while holding onto your musical dreams? This love letter is for the slow-burning, deeply sensitive artist navigating exhaustion, ambition, and the winding path of creativity. You’re not falling behind — you’re becoming. Let this be a reminder that your softness is part of your strength.

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What a Busker Taught Me About Playing the Long Game in My Creative Journey
Creative Process & Growth Sarah Stumböck Creative Process & Growth Sarah Stumböck

What a Busker Taught Me About Playing the Long Game in My Creative Journey

Embracing the long game is essential for any artist in the early stages of growth. In this post, I reflect on what I learned from meeting an inspiring busker in Freiburg, who helped me envision a life dedicated to music, even if the journey is slow. Discover why “zooming out” and keeping your creative vision alive can help you navigate the ups and downs. Ready to deepen your commitment? Then this read is for you.

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Update: What I’ve Learned from Practicing Music Every Day for 30 Days
Musicianship & Skill Development Sarah Stumböck Musicianship & Skill Development Sarah Stumböck

Update: What I’ve Learned from Practicing Music Every Day for 30 Days

It’s been one month since I began the 365-day music practice challenge, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned so far! From building muscle strength and timing to feeling more confident playing in front of others, I’m already seeing huge changes. Daily practice has taught me so much about resilience, and I’m here to say it’s never too late to join me on this journey.

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Beyond Perfection: How Music in Ceremony Acts as Both Catalyst and Mirror
Ceremonial Music Sarah Stumböck Ceremonial Music Sarah Stumböck

Beyond Perfection: How Music in Ceremony Acts as Both Catalyst and Mirror

Spiritual music in ceremony is far more than melody – it’s a catalyst for transformation and a mirror for inner truths. As a ceremonial musician, I’ve learned that each reaction to the music reflects something needed, whether joy, anger, or deep sadness. Over time, I’ve come to see music as both a tool and a canvas for participants’ projections, teaching me the art of non-attachment and embracing imperfection. Read how this perspective has not only deepened my connection to music, but transformed how I see myself as an artist.

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Musicians and Self-Care: Why You Must Fill Your Cup Before Serving
Self-Care for Musicians Sarah Stumböck Self-Care for Musicians Sarah Stumböck

Musicians and Self-Care: Why You Must Fill Your Cup Before Serving

As musicians, our energy is deeply intertwined with the music we play. When we’re well-rested and recharged, our music becomes a powerful and seamless extension of ourselves. But when we’re drained, the connection weakens. This article explores why self-care is essential for musicians and how prioritizing your well-being improves the energy and quality of your music. Learn practical self-care tips to recharge, so you can offer your most potent, aligned sound to the world.

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How to Use Music as a Tool for Psychedelic Integration After Ceremony
Psychedelic Integration Sarah Stumböck Psychedelic Integration Sarah Stumböck

How to Use Music as a Tool for Psychedelic Integration After Ceremony

Music doesn’t just guide your journey during a psychedelic ceremony – it plays an equally powerful role in helping you integrate the experience afterward at home. In this post, we explore how you can use music to ground your emotions, release energy, and deepen your insights long after the ceremony ends. Whether it’s creating an integration playlist or using sounding exercises, music can be your companion on the path to healing and personal growth.

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Alchemizing Self-Doubt: The Inner Growth Potential of Learning to Love Your Voice
Spiritual Growth & Inner Alchemy Sarah Stumböck Spiritual Growth & Inner Alchemy Sarah Stumböck

Alchemizing Self-Doubt: The Inner Growth Potential of Learning to Love Your Voice

Your voice is more than just an instrument; it’s a direct reflection of your soul and purpose in this life. Learning to love and embrace your unique voice is a journey of self-compassion and spiritual alchemy. In this article, discover how to transform self-doubt into self-love, unlocking the true potential of your voice and inner growth.

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The Power of Slow Practice: Why "Going Slow" Will Make You Faster
Musicianship & Skill Development Sarah Stumböck Musicianship & Skill Development Sarah Stumböck

The Power of Slow Practice: Why "Going Slow" Will Make You Faster

Rushing through practice might feel productive, but it often leads to mistakes and frustration. The secret to mastering any musical skill – whether it’s playing an instrument or singing – is to slow down. In this article, we explore why slow practice actually helps you progress faster, build better muscle memory, and increase your accuracy. Ready to unlock the power of slow practice? Discover how taking it slow can lead to long-term mastery.

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