"ONE OF the biggest challenges to traditional music learning is the need for practice. Students must play scales, chords and patterns over and over in hopes of developing muscle memory; for many, it is a daunting and tedious task. Research has shown that individual practice is often not productive because learners receive limited feedback and too often lose interest and motivation." from http://www.economist.com/blogs/prospero/2017/03/casual-learner-era The article then goes on to discuss various "apps" for salvation. ​Have a look yourself, though I'm not convinced.

​Let me address the issue.

• ​Musicians love to practice
• ​Musicians are self-directed
• ​Musicians are curious
• ​Students love the idea of playing
• Students are looking for guidance
• ​Students are too often too obedient, curiosity is not obedient

​If you are having some difficulties finding "time" or motivation to practice, I've some suggestions.

1. Go to a piano concert. Classical, Jazz, Pop, it doesn't matter. A quick story. A parent took her daughter to a piano Pops concert this past week in Mississauga. The girl came home and ran to the piano. Her piece, "Turkish Bazaar" never sounded better. 
2. Read books on how to practice. Google:, "Deliberate Practice".
   
3. Seek out a duet partner who plays close to your level. Have some fun.
   
4. Record yourself practicing, it will be enlightening. You will hear the good and the bad. You will then know what needs fixing.
   
5. Practice slow.
   
6. Practice a small chunk to done.
   
7. Go easy on yourself.
   
8. Check out drummer Benny Greb talk about learning to practice. It's both funny and helpful. 
   

​Best,

​David

Maybe. But is that the point? Are music lessons taken and given for instrumental reasons only?

Playing music has its own rewards. 

On the other hand.
​
Learning to play an instrument over a number of years instills though experience and a number of instrumental values that benefit children as they progress towards adulthood.  

1. Demonstrates to themselves and the world their ability to delay gratification, a key value in living a good life. 
2. Instills an appreciation of cause and effect. Playing the piano is one of the few authentic experiences left. No mediation, no shortcuts, no hacks. What you hear is a direct consequence to the effort put forward. This speaks for itself. 
3. Preservation of cultural values and appreciation of artistic excellence. 

If you would like this experience for yourself or your children drop me line. 

David