"You've got to learn your instrument. Then, you practice, practice, practice. And then, when you finally get up there on the bandstand, forget all that and just wail"

This quote by Charlie Parker is a suggestion to musicians that effort and commitment are necessary to becoming a fantastic musician. He highlights the importance of finding out one's instrument and after that practicing, practicing, and practicing some more. When an artist has actually put in the effort and practice, they ought to be able to forget all of that and just "wail" when they get up on the bandstand. This implies that they ought to be able to play with confidence and feeling, without worrying about the technical aspects of their playing. Parker's quote is a tip that hard work and commitment are important to becoming a fantastic artist, however that when a musician has put in the work, they ought to be able to let go and simply take pleasure in the music.