4.     MAKE PRACTICING EASIER

As with anything, improving in music takes practice.  One of the main problems with music lessons is the drudgery of practicing and the conflict between parents and students to practice every day.  Here are some tips to make practicing easier:

 TIME  Set the same time every day to practice so it becomes part of a routine or habit.  This works particularly well for children.  Generally the earlier in the day the practicing can occur, the less reminding is required by parents to get the child to practice.  Daily practicing, even if only for a few minutes will result in greater success than “cramming” the night before the lesson.

 REPETITION  For a young child 20 or 30 minutes seems like an eternity.  Instead of setting a time frame, try repetition.  For example, practice this piece 4 times every day and this scale 2 times each day.  The child then does not pay attention to the amount of time they are practicing their instrument, but knows if they are on repetition number 3, they are almost finished.
 
 REWARDS  Parents can encourage children to practice by granting them occasional rewards for successful practicing.  Praise tends to be the coveted reward – there just is no substitute for a pat on the back for a job well done.  Some families keep a chart on the fridge and the child receives a sticker for each day of practicing.  Listen to your child practice from time to time and be encouraging.

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Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.  ~Victor Hugo