The Saturday Studio: Practice

The Saturday Studio

PRACTICE

Good morning, Everyone.

I’m constantly concerned about a music program creating practice culture that is a critical component to that program’s success.

It’s such a great feeling when a student comes to a lesson and demonstrates a noticeable advancement in their skills. I know what went into that effort. Practice isn’t always fun or immediate gratification. The results, however are fun. It feels good to play well.

Personal practice is not what you do in band. That’s rehearsal. Rehearsal is about ensemble skills.

“Practice is self-examination of your performance skills, both mental, physical, and musical. Practice is observation to the point that one’s awareness improves. Practice is defining and solving issues in your musical and personal skills. Practice about setting goals and following through.”

Bring your skills to band. Don’t expect to learn personal skills during band rehearsal that will elevate you to the level an excellent program requires. To be a contributor, and not just a place-holder, one must adhere to a consistent, well-organized practice routine.

The Daily Drill that you do in band does not replace your instrument’s daily routine that we utilize in lessons.

Consistency. New skills require daily practice. And slow practice. Muscle skills are taught slowly. Efficiency aids velocity, tone, and range.

Where do you practice? When do you practice? Do band directors require than instruments go home in the evening?

On a personal note, when I was in high school I never practiced at school. Two reasons: our school didn’t have suitable practice rooms (cluttered storage) and there were too many social distractions with lack of privacy. I always had a quiet place to practice with uninterrupted time. I didn’t track of how long I practiced; but instead, what I accomplished.

In every lesson, I prioritize the items of focus for a student’s best, fastest progress. Following through consistently on these goals will deliver progress.

Parents, band directors, and studio teachers have to work together to create a culture where striving for excellence is the norm on a individual student level. Otherwise, excellence can’t be achieved on a program level.

Hope you each have a great week of mindful practice.

Joe Dixon