To Practice or not to Practice?

“Who knew that practicing a little each day that I could get so much better.”  Mr. K’s son after 5th grade.

Learning an instrument (practicing) is a slow process, but giving up will not speed it up.

Practice Expectations

How Long Should I Practice?

• Beginners (1st year students)  should practice about 5 minutes a day and slowly increase their time as the year progresses when they have more music and additional skills to practice.  For example, showing you how to put their instrument together, where to place their fingers or playing a new note for four counts is appropriate during the 1st month.  Refer to Mr.K’s practice sheets for guidance on how and what to practice.

• Advanced (2nd year students) should practice about 60 minutes a week to maintain their current skills.  Examples of what students can play during a practice session:  hold a new note for four-five counts each, repeat new exercises or tunes that were presented during prior class, and review a tune from a prior class.  Refer to Mr.K’s practice sheets for guidance on how and what to practice.

Practice Tips:

• Set aside a specific time and place to practice.  Use a timer or stopwatch in the beginning

• Try to practice in a room without distractions, TV, games, etc.

• Have a practice goal! What do you want to accomplish by the end?

• Remember to practice slowly and work in small chunks ( a few notes or 1 -2 measures)

• Practice the hard parts! Not just the fun parts

• Create a practice routine

  • Warm Up: Play long tones (hold a note for 4-5 counts) or review your favorite tunes in the book

  • Method book assignments (new tunes in the book)

  • Concert music when new pieces are introduced

  • End with reviewing a tune that you can play well

Need help to get started….