Ways to practice over a break from school and lessons

As well all approach the end of semester 1 break / Christmas break, we need to talk about how to practice over the weeks when we don't have a lesson to keep us on track! First of all, always do your best. We understand that sometimes life can make it difficult and the holiday break schedule throws everyone off. Here are just a few suggestions to help keep yourself or your student on track:

1. Set a reasonable practice goal. If you are used to practicing 5 times a week for 30 minutes aim to practice 2-3 times a week for 20 minutes. It keeps the musical language in your fingers and in your mind. Never go more than 4 days without sitting down at the piano. It is much harder to remember what you worked on if you go too many days in between practices.

2. Do a few rhythm claps a day. (Do do do-day do) This is an easy but effective way to keep your mind musically active.

3. Listen to music! Always enjoy your favorite music and get into it! Dance and have fun! It all helps you internalize beat and tempo.

4. Open your books and take 5 minutes to study your music. If you can't get to the piano at least look at your music. Half of the musical battle is understanding what you are reading and so it is good for the mind to take time to practice understanding music without playing it at the piano.

Have fun and enjoy your break!