Lessons have three objectives: 1) Introduction of new concepts; 2) Reinforcement and mastery of old concepts; 3) Preparation for weekly practice. Students will receive the greatest benefit from lessons with a daily practice routine. Practice should be focused, intentional, and referencing teacher notes from the most recent lesson, not just running through what a student remembers or “going through the motions.” Teacher notes are an essential tool in guiding students through practice at home and should be referenced every practice session. Parents play a crucial part in this process for younger students, gently encouraging the discipline and patience needed to practice successfully, and making sure practice time is a priority in the home.

The needs of each student will vary for optimal progress, but for those who work best within a time frame, here are some general starting recommendations:

Elementary students/beginners: 10-15 minutes/day

MS/intermediate students: 20-30 minutes/day

HS/advanced students: at least 45-60 minutes/day

Students will only spend 45 minutes every week in lessons. There are over 10,000 minutes in each week – that means less than 1% of a student’s time is spent working on material in lessons! Students will quickly become frustrated with feeling stuck in their musical study if they are not practicing regularly at home. At this point, lessons turn into supervised practice sessions, progress is drastically diminished, and we must consider discussing a transfer out of the studio. Consistent, careful practice should become a habit so that lesson time can be used for asking questions, troubleshooting tricky areas, and going over new technique and literature.

Remember – musical growth and development is a process that takes time and persistence. You will get out of your music education what you put into your music education. Practice is a discipline – it takes effort, but your effort will be rewarded!