There seem to be as many different ways to practice as there are people who play. Try not to feel you have to practice a certain way. What is important is that you find a way that works best for you. The following are some helpful hints for you to consider when structuring your own practice routine.
- Find a quiet location for practice.
- Try to plan a regular practice time.
- Set reasonable goals.
- Practice in a well-lighted area.
- Provide the proper tools and accessories for yourself: comfortable chair, music stand, tuning device, metronome, foot stool, pencil, etc.
- Keep your instrument readily available. If possible, place it in a musical instrument stand next to your practice chair. You may find that you will pick it up more often.
- ENJOY YOURSELF!!
Helpful Hints for Successful Practice: Part II
- Set clear boundaries between different aspects of your practice:
- Warm-up exercises
- Reach and stretch exercises
- Scales
- Arpeggios
- Chords
- Lesson material
- Repertoire - You may not be able to cover everything in one day, so spread it out over a few days.
- Remember--set reasonable goals!
- If you cannot concentrate, do NOT force it.
- Keep a "practice record" chart.