PARENT'S GUIDE TO PRACTICING

As the parent of an orchestra student, you and your child are beginning a special journey. Learning a musical instrument is a priceless gift, fostering a lifelong love of music and bringing many proud moments. While challenges may arise, especially in learning how to practice effectively, this website offers guidance to help your child succeed. Stay involved by listening to practice sessions weekly. Over time, your child will become self-motivated and disciplined, gaining essential life skills through their musical practice.

P.P.R.P. - WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

PLAYING

This refers to simply picking up an instrument and producing music. Playing can be casual or spontaneous, often for enjoyment, exploration, or relaxation. It’s not necessarily focused on improvement or preparation but rather on the experience of making music.

PRACTICING

Practicing is the deliberate effort to improve one’s skills on an instrument. It involves focused, repetitive exercises aimed at mastering techniques, learning new pieces, or refining specific aspects of playing. Practicing is often done alone and is essential for individual progress.

REHEARSING

Rehearsing occurs when musicians come together, typically as part of an ensemble, to work on pieces they’ve individually practiced. The focus is on blending the parts, addressing group dynamics, and refining the performance as a whole. Rehearsal is about synchronizing the group and solving ensemble-related challenges.

PERFORMING

Performing is the presentation of a rehearsed and practiced piece to an audience. It’s the final step, where all the preparation is brought together in a polished and cohesive way. Performing is a focused and often public display of the musician’s and ensemble’s skills and artistry.

When should students practice?

Students should practice at a time of day when they have a high level of energy and the ability to focus. Establishing a consistent practice time is crucial, as routine helps reinforce discipline and makes practice a regular part of their daily schedule. For students who find it difficult to focus for long periods or have busy schedules, splitting practice into two shorter sessions throughout the day can be more effective. Additionally, it’s important to avoid scheduling practice during times when the rest of the family is enjoying leisure activities, as this could lead to feelings of resentment. Instead, find a time when practice can be a focused, undisturbed activity that fits well into the student’s daily routine.

What should a practice space look like?

An ideal practice space should be a distraction-free environment where there’s no TV or background music playing, ensuring the student can fully concentrate. The room should be well-lit to prevent eye strain, with natural or sufficient artificial lighting. If there’s a ceiling fan, it should be turned off, as the moving air can sometimes move the sheet music.

The student should sit on a sturdy chair, such as a dining chair, to maintain optimal posture, allowing for proper breathing and air support while playing. Avoid armchairs, couches, and beds, as they don’t provide the necessary support. A music stand is essential and should be adjusted so the student looks straight ahead, which encourages healthy posture.

What should I see/hear during practice at home?

While your student is practicing, you should expect to hear:

Posture is Key: The student should sit or stand tall, without curving or slouching their back, and keep their back away from the chair's backrest. The chin should be slightly elevated, not tucked down or in. Elbows should be relaxed and slightly away from the body. When sitting, the legs and feet should form a 90-degree angle, with feet flat on the floor—not tucked under the legs or chair.
Instrument-Specific Sounds: Plucking/Bowing. These may not sound pleasant at first but are crucial for developing accuracy and tone quality.
Long Tones: Extended notes to improve bow control and tone.
Technique Patterns: Scales, arpeggios, and articulation exercises. These don’t sound like complete pieces but are foundational for all future music.
Music Pieces: Music for concerts, auditions, solos, and private lessons. Students should focus on problem areas, which may involve:
Slow Practice: Problem areas should be practiced very slowly with a metronome to avoid mistakes. Gradually increase tempo as proficiency improves.

Other Practices:

Clapping and counting to understand rhythm with a metronome.
Humming or singing to internalize the pitch and musical contour.
Practicing without sound (mental practice/"air playing") to ensure rhythmic precision and articulation.
Saying note names out loud while pressing fingers.
Self-recording for personal critique.
Regular practice of sight-reading (the first-time playing of new music to test music literacy) helps maintain and improve skills.
Playing music straight through without stopping.

How long/how often should students be practicing?

Students should focus on routine, consistency, and efficiency rather than sheer quantity when practicing their instrument.

Time: Start with about fifteen minutes a day, gradually increasing practice time as endurance and material knowledge grow.
Frequency: Practicing fifteen minutes daily, six days a week, is more effective than a single 60-minute session. Consistent, shorter practice helps maintain muscle memory and avoid burnout.
Session Length: Practice sessions should end when goals are met or when the student becomes mentally or physically fatigued. Mental exhaustion can hinder progress, and physical soreness can lead to poor posture and bad habits.
Breaks: Taking a day off for mental or physical rest is acceptable and beneficial for long-term progress.

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