Practicing Tips for Students.
Smaller Sections. The amount of music might be too much. If eight measures is too much, try four. Keep making it smaller until it is more manageable, and then try combining them into larger sections.
Fingers First. Practice going through the music just saying the note names and doing the fingerings or slide positions before you start playing it. Slow it Down. The song might be too fast for you right now. Try it slower to get more correct notes. Use a Metronome. It helps you keep a steady beat. Take a Break. Take a 3-5 minute break, then come back to the instrument. Getting frustrated is ok; just take a deep breath and try again when you're ready. Circle it. Still having trouble? Let Ms. Kane know in your next lesson. |
Don't practice until you get it right, practice until you CAN'T get it wrong. |
Practicing Tips for Parents.
The best thing you can do to help your child have a successful band experience is to make sure that your child practices their band instrument for 10-15 minutes as part of their regular homework routine. Treat practicing like other homework.
Your child might need your help to establish a practicing routine in the beginning.
You do not need to know how to play your child's instrument or have any musical experience to help your child.
In my experience, students who form a habitual practice routine from the beginning are the ones who end up thriving in the band program.
Your child might need your help to establish a practicing routine in the beginning.
You do not need to know how to play your child's instrument or have any musical experience to help your child.
In my experience, students who form a habitual practice routine from the beginning are the ones who end up thriving in the band program.
What to Do | Support and Structure
Music achievement requires effort over a period of time. You can help your child by:
- Scheduling a consistent, daily time for practice
- Providing a distraction-free, quiet place in which to practice
- Remaining nearby during practice times as often as possible
- Making sure your child is aware of assignments/upcoming assessments and that they are preparing for them accordingly
- Offering compliments and encouragement regularly, especially when you hear an improvement
- Exposing your child to a wide variety of music, including concerts and recitals, as well as recordings
- Encouraging your child to talk about his or her band lesson
- Making sure your child’s instrument is always in good working order - please never attempt repairs at home
Click here to join Garden City Friends of Music.