Getting Started Practicing
Make practice part of your daily routine.
Set aside specific time
for it.
Designate a specific area as your music area.
Gather
your musical 'stuff'; instrument, picks, capos, music books, metronome, music stand & tuner and keep them close
at hand.
Keep your instrument handy!
Get an instrument stand or
hang it on the wall. Everyone plays more when it’s easily accessible.
Try
to play daily.
15 minutes every day is better than an hour & a half twice a week. We do EVERYTHING
better when we do it regularly. The more time you are able to put into anything the more noticeable the results AND the greater
the personal reward.
Practice your weekly assignments striving for perfection in technique,
tone and speed.
Don't forget to play pieces for your own enjoyment. There is a distinct difference
between the two, so allow time for both.
Parents of young students
As
with everything your child does, the more you are involved and provide encouragement, the greater the chances of success.
Children will need to be reminded of their daily routine. That's just part of it.
Show your child their progress and success are important to you.
Music
is not something you master by understanding, it's only mastered with continued practice, performance and critique.
Help your child understand there will be good days and there will be not so good days. This is a process just like building
any other skill.
What they accomplish in their musical pursuit will benefit them in all
areas of life.
Music is a form of self expression, therefore we must be sensitive when providing
guidance.
At least once a week you should sit with your student and listen, offering encouragement.
Consider learning an instrument with your child! No greater reward is found than making music with someone you love.
