Practice Tips
I recommend you spend about two hours a week practicing at home. This ensures you are prepared for class and are getting the most learning out of your instrument!
Just 15-20 minutes a day is all you need! Think of it like homework. :)
Every time you practice:
Tune your instrument carefully (see below for apps to use).
Warm up for about 5 minutes by playing a scale or one of the method book exercises we're working on.
Find 2 or 3 parts you are struggling with and play them slowly and carefully.
Gradually play the parts faster as you get more comfortable with it. (use a metronome! some apps are below)
Do NOT just play the piece from beginning to end! This will make you learn bad habits if you're not already comfortable with it.
Take your time and take short breaks every 20 minutes or so.
If you want some recommendations on what to practice, let me know!
Free Practice Apps:
SoundCorset Tuner & Metronome (GooglePlay iPhone) ***my personal favorite!***
Practice+ Tuner & Metronome (iPhone)
Pitched Tuner (GooglePlay iPhone)