Hello everyone!
We are approaching the end of summer, and with that, school is back in full steam as we get back into a new routine!
This year definitely seems different than last year. The world seems to be reopening, and although we have no certainty as to what the world will look like next year or a few months from now, we are hopeful for a bright, peaceful, and happy future.
As we get used to the new routine and new after-school activities also begin, we also get more focused on the schedule. In our opinion, this is the best time to focus on music practicing as well. Regular practice on a musical instrument is key to improve and become a better musician quickly. So, as we get into a regular schedule, this might be the perfect time to get into the groove of a regular practice routine!
How often should I practice?
There is much debate about this question. There is no denying that practicing is key to improvement, but at the same time, forcing a child to practice too much can kill the magic and excitement for learning an instrument. The answer, just like everything in life, is finding that balance between the two.
Practicing is undoubtedly vital to gradually improving when learning how to play a musical instrument. With so many activities on our schedules these days, it is sometimes hard to have an additional weekly routine. Nonetheless, just like we have responsibilities and regular activities, practicing a musical instrument can be penciled in like any other activity on our schedules. Even a few minutes of practice can go a long way!
There is no straight answer to how much practice someone should do in between lessons. Should the practice be daily? If so, how long? Should I practice for one extended period or in smaller blocks of time?
The answer to these questions is to practice based on whatever works best for you or your child, as long as there is some practice time invested in between music classes so that the student can get the most out of the lessons. Of course, practicing every day is always recommended, and the quality of the practice is still better than quantity, which based on the student’s age and schedule, practicing more often and for shorter periods of time can be more beneficial than practicing not so regularly and for longer periods of time.
When it comes to learning a musical instrument, one thing is certain. Practicing at a healthy pace will make you better at your instrument, and the better you get at your instrument, the more you’ll enjoy playing it. Also, let’s not forget… listening to music regularly is part of your learning experience and should be part of your practice routine!
Celebrating September!
As we enjoy the wonderful month of September, let’s take a look at some fun and exciting dates that might spark a plan or two this time of the year and give us more reasons to further celebrate the month of September!
September 6: Labor Day
September 9: International Sudoku Day and Teddy Bear Day
September 12: Grandparents’ Day and National Video Game Day
September 14: National Coloring Day and Live Creative Day
September 15: Yom Kippur
September 17: International Country Music Day
September 18: Batman Day and National Cheeseburger Day
September 19: Wife Appreciation Day
September 24: Heritage Day
September 25: National Cooking Day and Comic Book Day
September 26: National Pancake Day and Johnny Appleseed Day
September 29: National Coffee Day
