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Practice Strategies/Tools:Start here:
Go measure by measure (this is called 'chunking') Then small sections (two-4 measures) Then build from there and try to figure out any problems/issues Solutions/StrategiesNote Problem
Say note names in rhythm Say finger numbers in rhythm Play all notes like half notes Play all notes as two quarter notes Play all notes as one quarter note (if they are fast/eighth notes) Review Finger patterns/Hand shapeRhythm/Bow Problem Clap and Count Bow the rhythm in the air Play rhythm on an open string Play with a metronome Coordination Problem Separate the hands Play all the notes pizzicato Air bow Remove the bowings (take out any slurs or hooks) Play the rhythms on open strings Make it ‘Perfect’ Record yourself Play it slow and gradually speed it up Play for someone |
Ms. Mihalko's 5th Grade Practice Videos
Practicing
In the first few weeks of class, students should be spending 10-15 minutes each day practicing their instrument. We will work off of the "1st Orchestra Assignment" document that is passed out in class. I have attached a copy of the document below for your reference, or in case another copy is needed. While practicing, your child should work on the following:
As we progress through new material and develop new skills and endurance, practice time should shift towards 20-30 minutes a day. The saying goes: You only have to practice on the days that you eat!
I understand that for many families that is not possible. I do expect a minimum of 3 days a week of practice in order for students to keep up in class. Any less than that, on a regular basis, will most likely mean that your child will start to fall behind in class because they need a lot of help and re-teaching. To do well in class and move forward quickly 5 days a week of practice is expected.
To help encourage your child to practice, take time to join them while they are doing these activities. Ask them to teach you, or demonstrate the skills for you. The best way to help your child become a good practicer is to show positive interest in it yourself. Spending 5-10 minutes with them while they practice will pay off significantly in the future. Definitely do not use practicing as a punishment. Help your child find a space in the home where they can set up their own "practice corner". Sending them to the garage or basement doesn't always send the best message to students. I will do my very best to make sure they are learning to play the instrument well. If you hear scratching or squeaking that means they are doing something incorrectly and need some encouragement to make adjustments to correct their tone. For more information about how to help foster positive practicing skills visit https://eastorchestras.weebly.com/practicing.html
- Review posture and positioning of the instrument
- Spend time practicing holding the instrument in playing position
- Practice the String Song/open strings
- Pencil bow-holds (10-20)
- Up Like a Rocket with the pencil bow hold
- Review parts of the instrument (pg. 2 of the book)
- Practice reading music and playing the open strings on pages 4-5 of the book
As we progress through new material and develop new skills and endurance, practice time should shift towards 20-30 minutes a day. The saying goes: You only have to practice on the days that you eat!
I understand that for many families that is not possible. I do expect a minimum of 3 days a week of practice in order for students to keep up in class. Any less than that, on a regular basis, will most likely mean that your child will start to fall behind in class because they need a lot of help and re-teaching. To do well in class and move forward quickly 5 days a week of practice is expected.
To help encourage your child to practice, take time to join them while they are doing these activities. Ask them to teach you, or demonstrate the skills for you. The best way to help your child become a good practicer is to show positive interest in it yourself. Spending 5-10 minutes with them while they practice will pay off significantly in the future. Definitely do not use practicing as a punishment. Help your child find a space in the home where they can set up their own "practice corner". Sending them to the garage or basement doesn't always send the best message to students. I will do my very best to make sure they are learning to play the instrument well. If you hear scratching or squeaking that means they are doing something incorrectly and need some encouragement to make adjustments to correct their tone. For more information about how to help foster positive practicing skills visit https://eastorchestras.weebly.com/practicing.html