Practice Tips

Why does my band student need to practice at home? Don't you practice every day in band class?

One of the most common misconceptions about our band program is that "practice" takes place during the school day. When our students meet as a group, they are engaging in "rehearsal." The issues we address are those that affect the group as a whole, from ensemble tuning and balance to stylistic approach and dynamic control. We are developing our collective instrument and preparing challenging repertoire for our upcoming performances. Practice is not only band class's "homework", but the only way for your band student to reach his or her full potential.

What makes "practice" different?

Practicing one's instrument is an individualized process students develops their technique and musicianship. Practice should be a regularly scheduled activity that takes place in a quiet, comfortable space away from distractions utilizing both a chair and a music stand. (Simply placing music on a bed or table can establish poor posture.) In a practice session, students should address areas of their band music in which they're having difficulty, work on scales or other technical exercises, or improve their ability to read at sight by attempting to play new or unfamiliar music. This should all be done with care and precision, taking time to properly warm up and clean their instruments. As we know, practice doesn't necessarily make perfect, but it always makes permanent.

What should a typical practice session look like?

Students should allot at least 15 minutes to their practice sessions, but 30 minutes or more is not uncommon and encouraged. It's important that students set a goal for their session, rather than wander through it. ("I will be able to play measures 10 through 15 at the right tempo without making any mistakes.") Students should begin by warming up using breathing exercises, lip slurs, rudiments, scales or other instrument-appropriate activities. They may then transition to their band music, music for a private teacher, or music they're learning on their own, being sure to use the time to focus on areas they'd like to improve rather than continuing to perform sections that they can play well. (This isn't to say that students shouldn't play their favorite music while practicing. It can often be a great confidence-booster when frustrated.) Addressing a musical problem almost always involves slowing it down, breaking it into component parts and gradually picking up the pace. The practice session should conclude with a bit of instrument maintenance to ensure that it continues to work properly (cleaning and oiling valves, properly storing reeds, using a swab or cloth.)

How can I help my band student establish a practice routine?

The best way to ensure that your son or daughter develops a regular and effective practice routine is to help make it a priority. Establish a schedule for when your band student brings his or her instrument home. Daily practice might not be possible, but finding time once or twice a week to do so should be within reason. Show an interest in his or her music. Ask to sit in and listen from time to time and be encouraging in your comments. You'll be surprised by how much of an impact you can have on his or her overall experience.

But isn't playing an instrument supposed to be fun? Practice sounds tedious.

Though a regular practice routine requires hard work and dedication, the skills that are developed as a result lead to improved confidence and ultimately a more enjoyable musical experience. Students want to be able to play their instruments to the best of their ability. When practice helps them do so, they are not only given the satisfaction of personal achievement, but a relationship with music that will last a lifetime.