Wow! Half way through Term 1. By now students have settled into their lessons, ensemble rehearsals have commenced, and students should be developing a practice routine. When it comes to learning an instrument, we know that regular practice is the way to make progress. Beginner students should aim for 3 x 10-15 minute practice sessions per week. And with 10,050 minutes between each 30 minute music lesson each week, it sometime baffles teachers how so many excuses are made about lack of practice! 

So what should you as a parent be saying to your child to be supportive in establishing a practice routine? Over the next couple of weeks, we’ll offer some suggestions that you may want to try with your young musician.

“What did you learn about in your lesson today?”

This is key! Let’s move away from the idea that learning an instrument is learning to play particular pieces of music. It’s not! It’s about learning concepts: aspects of technique, landmark notes and reading, phrasing, expression, particular rhythms, expressing themselves, etc. Help your child to get WHAT CONCEPTS they are learning clear in their mind to focus their studies.

Stay tuned for more helpful conversations you can have with your child in the next newsletter. And - as always, feel free to discuss your child's musical development with their music teacher anytime!

Thanks so much! 
Maple Egerton