Practice makes perfect! Without regular, daily practice, your child will not be able to improve and excel at playing their instrument. In order to develop the muscles necessary for playing his/her instrument, I ask that each student practice a minimum of 100 minutes per week. In the front cover of the method books, there is a practice record which students are responsible for filling out and getting signed each week to be checked by me at each lesson. Please encourage your child to practice.
1. Set a regular and definite practice schedule that does not take time away from their favorite or required activities.
2. I recommend at least 20 minutes a day, but remember to have fun when practicing. Also, quality is more important than quantity!
3. Choose a quiet place to practice with no distractions. Make sure there is a good amount of light and you are using a music stand.
4. Always go back to the basics! Practice in front of a mirror so you can constantly check your embouchure and posture. Make sure you are using your air and dont be afraid of practicing the hard parts! How else will you master the music?
5. Be proud of yourself and your accomplishments! Show your family and friends what you have learned! When you deserve it, pat yourself on the back for a job well done!
How Parents Fit In
What to do:
To give your child the best possible support you should:
-Encourage your child to play for family and friends.
-Offer compliments and encouragement regularly.
-Expose your child to a wide variety of music, including concerts and
recitals.
-Encourage your child to talk with you about his/her lessons.
-Make sure your child's instrument is in good working order.
-Listen to your child practice and acknowledge improvement.
What not to do:
Your child's progress will be greatly enhanced if you:
-Do not use practice as a punishment.
-Do not insist your child play for others when they don't want to.
-Do not ridicule or make fun of mistakes or less-than-perfect playing.
-Do not apologize to others for your child's weak performance.
-Do not start your child on an instrument that is in poor working order.
-Do not expect rapid progress and development in the beginning.
If your child losses interest:
In the event that your child losses interest in his or her music studies,
don't panic.
-Discuss the situation with your child to determine why they are losing interest.
-Talk to the band director to see what might be done to rekindle their
enthusiasm.
-Offer increased enthusiasm and support.