Some Thoughts About Practicing
- I will provide your students with the necessary tools and techniques during their weekly lessons, but I can't be there to make sure they practice at home. This is where parent/guardian support is necessary.
- Practicing should be something that students want to do. The goal of practicing is not only to be prepared for their lessons, but to enhance the students' musical experience by being an active participant in their own progress.
- Aim for 15-20 minutes per session, at least five times per week. Practicing doesn't need to be extensive, but it does need to be consistent.
- Try setting up a regular time for your child to practice during the evening so that he/she can get into a regular routine.
- Practicing for musicians is like physical training for athletes- You can't run a marathon until you can at least run a few miles. Practicing builds our muscles that are required to play our instruments well.
- Students should focus their practice on the more difficult passages as well as sections that they enjoy playing for fun. In order to make progress we need to challenge ourselves, so only practicing what we can already play is not the best use of time.
- Please be patient with your child as they practice. The early sounds may not always be the most pleasant, but this is a necessary part of the process. Talk to your child about their progress, and find opportunities for praise and encouragement.
- Encourage persistence. Learning to play an instrument does not come easily to many students, but this is a great opportunity to teach the importance of determination.