#4 Make Practice Easier

As with anything, improving at a musical instrument requires practice. One of the main problems with music lessons is the drudgery of practicing and the fight between parents and students to practice every day. Here are some ways to make practicing easier.

a) Time - Set the same time every day to practice so it becomes part of a routine or habit. This works particularly well for children. Generally the earlier in the day the practicing can occur, the less reminding is required by parents to get the child to practice.

b) Repetition - Sometimes it is hard to get a student to practice for 20-30 minutes at a time especially for the younger students. Repetition can be another way of practicing that will still allow the student to progress in their lessons but without forcing them to sit for 30 minutes at a time. For example, practice this piece 8 times every day, or this scale 5 times a day. The student then does not pay attention to the amount of time they are practicing, but knows if they are on repetition number 7 they are almost done.

c) Rewards - This works very well for both children and adult students. Adults may choose to reward themselves after a successful week of practice. Parents can also encourage their children to practice by granting them occasional rewards for a good week of practice. We find that praise tends to be the most coveted reward. Students are always encouraged if the teacher is impressed and pleased with a student’s progress during the week.

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