A Minor Change to My Stance on Music on the Golf Course

Two years ago I wrote an article categorically stating that music on the golf course has no place. Actually, I still believe that music played over a speaker on the course is bad form. I find the noise intrusive and disruptive to my concentration. However, times are a changing and I thought I would revisit my hard stance. Continue reading

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The Greatest Hits of Golf

I was thinking about how my greatest hits in golf are rooted in the simplicity of perfection. Rick Williams, one of my original followers of The Grateful Golfer, routinely talks about how music puts him in the mood to cook. Following his lead, I decided to think of what type of music I would listen too on the range to help me groove my swing that would lead to my greatest hits of golf! Continue reading

Music on the Golf Course

The golf course is a tranquil location where golfers can commune with nature and enjoy scenic beauty. It is a place where anyone can challenge themselves to be a better player and in some cases person. It is my “happy place”!

A few months ago, a follower of The Grateful Golfer asked my opinion about some playing music while playing golf. He also recommended I write an article about this very topic. At that time I had no frame of reference, well that ship has sailed! Continue reading

Sweet Music and Golf

I was listening to some music yesterday and was struck by the wonderful sound.  They were playing an acoustic guitar and effortlessly moved from note to note.  The resulting sound was most rewarding and I was grateful to have heard it.  So, I picked up my guitar (which I decided I wanted to learn how to play as a new years resolution) and plucked out some not so soothing sounds.  Then it struck me that when I am playing golf or watching an excellent player, I feel the same as listening to someone play the guitar…..it is sweet music.

music and golfSome may suggest that this is a long stretch, but just think about it for a moment.  When the ball is hit pure the sound is instantly noticeable and a smile usually comes to players face. Same as when you are listening to your favorite song.

Walking on the course early in the morning is like listening to a symphony orchestra.  The wind is gently blowing in the trees, the birds are singing, the frogs are croaking, you hear your repetitive foots steps on the wet grass and the sun is rising over the trees.  If you close your eyes when listening to classical music and think of playing golf you will know exactly what I mean.

So what am I really talking about?  The right music puts most people into a mental state where they believe they can accomplish anything.  Music can set the stage for success.  When preparing for something special, many people listen to music to put them in the right mood before they have to perform.  Athletes, especially, listen to music all the time to mentally prepare themselves to their sporting activity.

Mentally preparing for golf is no different.  Preparing for success will result in better focus, greater consistency and be more apt to believe they can succeed.  Being in the “right frame of mind” has many benefits and most of which is a more enjoyable time on the golf course.

I listen to music before I play and notice a difference.  You may too!

How do you mentally prepare for golfing?