The Practice Rule of Thumb
Solitary home practice is the most important part of learning to play an instrument. It is where you hone your skills and are able to listen carefully to what you are doing without the added confusion of what other musicians are playing. If you truly want to play your instrument well, sound great, and play more difficult music, it’s the one thing that can really help you. If you take a one-hour lesson, you should find at least one hour a day to practice. If you take a forty-five minute lesson, you should find at least forty-five minutes a day to practice. This means time on lesson materials, the assignments I gave you, not band music or other things you need to prepare. Keep a practice log or journal. Write down how long you are spending on a specific task. Or say to yourself: “I’m going to learn this (measure, exercise, etude, scale, etc…) in (…) minutes.” See if you can do it! Of course, any additional practicing you would like to do is wonderful. You’ll only improve. At first, I would suggest breaking up the practice periods in to 10, 15, or 20 minute sessions. This gives you a chance to build up your embouchure, and remain fresh for the time period. Practicing is a great study break. You also could try just when you are home from school or before or after dinner (just be sure to brush you teeth!). Be creative, and be efficient with your time.
You will need good light, a music stand, and a straight-backed chair without arms (or try standing!) A metronome, and access to a mirror is also recommended. Turn off all the media and try to be in a secluded place without distractions. Tap your foot to help keep the beat. Write helpful hints and notes IN PENCIL in your music. Look up music terms you see and pencil them in. Think about how the piece is supposed to sound before you start to play.
Take Initiative
If you feel that you have accomplished the assigned tasks…Turn the page! Choose something new! Play it in a different key! If there is a particular piece of music you would like to learn, bring it to your lesson. If you want to work on a specific skill, need help with a band test, or want to audition for something, speak up!
Be Responsible
Music lessons are a privilege. Someone (maybe even you!) has worked hard to provide an instrument, music and accessories, and the gas to drive you to and from your lesson. They also have invested their time and moral support. So do your part - it’s your responsibility to practice and work hard to improve. Going to your lesson and playing while you are there will not make you a better musician. Playing through your assignment once or twice during the week doesn’t always make things sound better. I also think that it has been proven that making excuses doesn’t make you a better musician!