Practice daily for progress and results.
Set up a consistent practice space. Use a music stand, and metronome, and a recorder to listen to how you sound. Schedule a regular practice time if possible.
Assemble the instrument carefully and lubricate regularly.
Warm-Up (both the instrument and yourself!)
Play in the middle register of your instrument, mezzo-forte, and gradually extend the register and dynamic levels as your lips, embouchure, and body begin to respond with agility and flexibility.
Strengthen your embouchure by playing l-o-n-g t-o-n-e-s.
Listen and play in tune with good tone quality, practice all dynamic levels.
Limber the fingers by playing scales and exercises.
Practice slowly at first, increasing the speed only after the patterns can be played evenly.
Practice the assigned lesson or music parts.
When unable to play a particular phrase or group of notes, STOP. Make an Exercise out of the difficult part. Practice it slowly at first, and then gradually build up to the proper speed.
Practice for results-not just a length of time!
Focused time spent on your instrument is very similar to focused attention on physical exercise. You can save yourself a million mindless repetitions if you work intelligently.
Clean and disassemble your instrument.
After a practice session is over, dry the inside of woodwinds and drain the moisture from brass instruments. Then wipe off the inside and outside of the instrument. Carefully return the instrument to its case. To avoid damage: do not keep stands, mutes, music, or other objects in the case unless a place is provided for them.