We don't have all day to do everything we want. We have to make the best use of our time. When you are practicing an instrument this is crucial. Here are 10 top tips to maximize your practice at home.
1. Schedule - set aside a time for you to practice. Depending on your level as a young beginner player practice 20 - 30 minutes a day. An intermediate or older player should practice 45 to 60 minutes a day. Break up that time into different tasks. Below is an outline example.
Outline
Warm Up - 5 minutes playing something fun you like to play. You just want to get your muscles and mind engaged.
Technique - 5 minutes practicing scales and technical exercises.
Reading - 5 minutes reading and playing something new.
Refinement - 5 minutes playing any pieces you are currently learning to play that may not be new.
Listen - 5 minutes learning something new by ear. This is not reading the music. This is just listening and playing what you here.
Whatever - 5 minutes or longer to end you practice session playing whatever you want, have fun!!!
This out line is just an example how to organize you practice time for the most benefit. If you have an hour you can double the time for categories above or adjust them as you need.
2. Pick a place - find a place you can practice that is comfortable for you and without distractions so you can focus.
3. Use a metronome. Use a metronome and track your progress each practice. If you are playing and you start at 60 beats per minute and while you practice to progress to 64 beats a minute write that down.
4. Keep a practice record of your progress and goals and write down your mistakes in your music or in your practice record.
5. Always have a pencil ready.
6. Slow is smooth, smooth is fast. Do not be in a hurry. Always start slower and work up to correct tempo.
7. Always practice more than once. If you cannot play it correctly at least three times in a row. Then you cannot play it.
8. Record Yourself. If you have the ability record yourself playing to listen to later. When you listen make notes of what you hear. Be ready to be open and honest so you can improve your mistakes.
9. Set goals. Always have a list of goals you are looking to accomplish.
10. Have fun! Remember to have fun and take breaks when you get frustrated.
