Piano Lesson Practice

Learning to play the piano is a skill that requires practice. We realize that everyone's schedules and temperaments vary, so we offer the following principles.

• Multiple, short, practice sessions are of greater benefit than occasional, long sessions.
• Focused practice for a short time is more productive than an hour of aimless playing.
• Younger students may do better with a parent by their side during practice sessions.
• When practicing, begin with something enjoyable. Then proceed to work with the more difficult pieces. Reward yourself with something you enjoy to end your practice session.
• When working on a difficult section of music, it is best to break it into small pieces. As each small piece is mastered, the student gains confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Someone has said, "The longest journey begins with one step."
• If you find yourself making many mistakes while practicing, SLOW DOWN! This will give your brain the time it needs to process the many signals required to produce the desired results. Once you have trained your fingers you can turn up the speed.
• If you are practicing and find yourself feeling very frustrated, leave the piano and do something else for a while. Taking a break may enable you to return with a renewed focus.
• Set practice goals. Someone has said, "If you aim at nothing, you hit it every time."
• It's generally helpful to practice the right and left hands separately on difficult sections of music. Once each hand has mastered its part, you can join the two.

Though we encourage a fun approach to music, there are aspects which are more difficult than others. Consistent practice will result in active progress.

Parental Support for Younger Students

Parental support is an extremely important factor in musical training of children. Children whose parents take an active and honest interest in their child's progress tend to be more enthusiastic and productive. Parents are encouraged to attend the weekly lesson in order to better assist the child with home practice sessions.

Questions?

Please do not hesitate to contact Hillside Music if you have questions. We'll be happy to assist you in any way that we can.