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9 Practice Tips From Jessica

It is a busy time of year, going from summer into fall. Our Music Program Coordinator Jessica Westlund has a few practice tips for all of us to start our fall off right. We found these tips very helpful - we thought you might, too!

  1. Cheerful hearts and full tummies make for good practice - eat a snack before picking up your instrument.
  2. Wash your hands with soap and water before a lesson to create a clean practice space.
  3. Practice. Practice. Practice. Practice. Practice is most effective when done 4-5 times a week.
  4. Follow the list your teacher gave you. Take time to go through everything and prepare for the next week.
  5. Play every song 3 times through to get it locked in.
  6. Practice before play. It is good to get in the habit of rewarding yourself for practicing. It shouldn't be a chore, but like chores it is easier to do before the evening gets underway.
  7. Remember to bring your books to every lesson, this way you will be ready when the teacher is ready.
  8. The new year means new supplies - remember to bring a notebook and pencil. A music bag is a great way to keep track of everything music related, throw it near the door the night before so it is ready to go.
  9. Remember to give sufficient notice if you are going to  miss a day (and remember, we have days set aside at the end of every semester dedicated to make up missed lessons).

P.S. You are invited to join us on September 16th for our Fall Kick Off! It will be a great time to meet teachers, check out instruments, eat cotton candy and generally have a good time. Read more here, and plan to join us!