Practicing Tips
 

Where?

• Quiet place without distractions

• Chair that supports good posture

• Music Stand (when possible)

What?

All Students:

• Brief warm-up - similar to class

Sixth and Seventh Grade (when applicable):

• Review exercises from book learned in class

• Preview at least the next two or three exercises for tomorrow

Seventh and Eighth Grade:

• Practice scales

• Prepare music for upcoming performances

Important Information about Practicing

• A small amount of practice every day is much better than a large amount once a week.

• A daily routine is extremely important.

• Students are encouraged to play other music outside of class, but it should not be counted as practice time for class.

• Times entered on practice records should reflect actual playing time on instrument.

• No matter what grade your child is in, 100 minutes of practice per week is really the minimal requirement. Some students may desire or need more time.

Things parents can look for when their wind player practices

• Good Posture - sitting up straight, feet flat on the floor - like you see at concerts

• Good embouchure - Four "F's"

  • Firm corners (of lips)

  • Flat cheeks

  • Flat chin

  • Fast air

Things parents can look for when their percussionist practices

• Good posture - standing up straight, feet flat on the floor - like you see at concerts

• They can practice all percussion parts on a snare drum, practice pad, or bell kit. (Just because you don't have a bass drum or crash cymbals (for example) at home doesn't mean your child can't practice their part.)

Maintenance

• Your child has been taught how to keep their instrument clean and how to perform routine maintenance on it.

• To reduce repair costs for you, please encourage the appropriate steps needed to keep an instrument in good working order.