I heard it as a young piano and flute student, and I’m sure you did: “Practice makes perfect!” The old adage has plagued generations of future musicians who begrudgingly pluck piano keys, blow trumpets, or cut protesting violin strings. Of course, any professional musician will claim that quality practice time is the key to success… with an emphasis on the word QUALITY. The average music student will spend half an hour a week under the supervision of a teacher, but skills and techniques are acquired during the remainder of the week as the student repeats assigned exercises. As a music teacher, I have had more than one student come back to the next lesson with a bad habit that quickly solidifies, which we then have to work on undoing before progressing. To ensure progress, musicians must be self-aware as they practice. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1.) Sit/stand up straight. Mom was right! Make sure her feet are flat and he is sitting on the edge of her chair. Or if you’re standing, balance your weight evenly with your feet slightly apart. Keep your spine straight and your shoulders relaxed. This improves everything: breathing support, tone, hand position, etc. And best of all, you’re avoiding unnecessary headaches and tension pain.
2.) Practice slowly. This is more difficult for new players who are itching to finish that first song. But pitch, intonation (pitch), rhythmic accuracy, and control (breathing or bowing) develop during slow practice. If it’s not slow, it won’t get better with speed!
3.) Get a mirror. Watch yourself as you play memorized scales or warm-ups for small flaws you may not see or feel.
4.) Take notes during your lesson. Be sure to note the specific comments your teacher repeatedly makes: is he telling you every two minutes to straighten your wrist? You may have a bad habit developing.
5.) Write yourself a note. If you know you have a bad habit that might be forming, write yourself a great reminder and stick it on your lectern at home. While it’s wonderful to lose yourself in the music, try not to lose sight of your basic technique.
Whatever your instrument, consider these tips as you begin your practice session. Remember: a few careful minutes can save you hours of future frustration!