What do you think is the best way to learn the art of magic? What do you think is the best way to improve?

There seem to be many young aspiring magicians around lately. Thought this might be a good post for everyone.

I haven't been doing magic for long, compared to the more senior magicians around who have been doing it for decades. My experience are obviously lacking in many ways. Having said that, I've done my fair share of networking and met many local magicians both hobbyists and professionals.

Amongst many of the amateur magician's I've met, many are bedroom magicians without much exposure in terms of both knowledge and performing experience. Comparing it to the generation of magician 5 years back, you can really see a big difference.

In the past, there were a couple of magic shops that "teach" the art of magic at a price. These days, people tend to learn the most from books or videos. Somehow its positioned such that its the easiest and most economical way to master the art. But there is really a huge difference between the magicians before compared to the ones starting out these days.

I learnt quite a bit from meeting other magicians. Experienced ones in particular who don't mind sharing the best in their very own repertoire. Other that, I absorb the most out of performances of others. LIVE performances. Usually I don't get too much from SMC gatherings because everyone seem so involved with cardwork. But watching the performances and presentations of others during the gatherings, help you to gauge where you stand and see how much hard work you really need to be called a magician. There seem to be a vast difference between one with 5 years of performing experience compared to another magic hobbyists. Finally, I learn the MOST through performing magic. Both Jeff Mcbride and Lance Burton stressed this point to all young aspiring magicians. To perform as often as you can. It doesn't have to be a huge stage show. Even a small trick to the neighbour is a priceless lesson.