Being a good musician is not based on luck. It is the results of concentrated work, focused endeavor and detailed analysis. The following practice strategies are here to help you build success and gain strong skills quicker.
- You only need to practice on the days you eat…every day. Even if you are very busy, 15-20 minutes of focused practice will work wonders. Practice more when you can (weekends, etc.)
- Break up practice sessions into small time increments. Several hours of playing can be physically and mentally draining. Practice for 10-15 minutes, take a break, STRETCH, get some water and then go back. This will keep you mentally “in the game” and also help avoid injury. In the beginning students do not need to spend more than 15 minutes practicing. As skills are developed and more skills are acquired, students will be able to practice for longer periods of time. At the beginning stages setting a routine and frequency are the biggest goals to set.
- Find a quiet spot to practice. No TV, radio, ipod, computer or outside disturbances!
- Whenever possible, listen to a recording of the piece you are working on. This helps to get the sound of the piece in your ear and may help prevent you from making some rhythmic/pitch errors. It will aid in phrasing and musicality!
- Learn your part slowly, allowing the notes and the shape of the phrases to really sink in.
- Once you are familiar with the notes and rhythm, use a metronome to set a steady tempo. Work to increase this tempo gradually, stopping and taking time to practice “10 times perfect”.
- If possible, us a tuner to hone intonation.
- Sing your part so you know how you want it to sound. Play and sing at the same time.
- Have a practice routine. Use the practice sheet to guide practicing.
- Practice should not equal drudgery. Find ways to make it fun and interesting. Dancing, walking, moving while playing not only breaks the monotony, but also helps avoid tension. Create your own improvised melodies on scales. Learn your favorite song by ear. Remember WHY you started playing in the first place.