Blog Archives

Ten things that will make piano practice more effective

2/18/2019

You've heard it all before, but for old times sake here it is again.

Learn to enjoy the process of incremental improvement. The journey is the thing.
Firewall practice time. Don't let it get derailed by other activities of a non-life threatening nature.
Get more sleep.
No drinking before practice.
Eat real food, you'll feel better. Feeling better makes everything easier, including piano practice.
Organise your mind, materials, and activities before you start to practice.
Feedback is crucial, so... Try recording yourself and listening back.
Listening to great music will help all aspects of learning. There is a saying in music that everyone wants to play what they hear in their heads. And, alas, students do. You can fill your mind with the memory of great performances, this will help you hear your own efforts with a better perspective.
Sweat the small stuff: technique, sight reading, ear training, theory and history.
Remember, for most of us we do this for fun.
Bonus: Head for the gym. The life benefits are undeniable.

Best Regards,

David Story

2/9/2019

What to practice and why

Scales, chords, arpeggios: time to practice playing beautiful
Sight reading: good sight-readers master new work quicker
Etudes: tame the technical limits of your playing
Ear training: we can’t play what we can’t hear
Repertoire review: build your program
Deep listening: your developing skills will change how you hear music
Playing with others: build relationships with likeminded souls and have more fun
Finally, be patient, enjoy the process.

Finally, if you would like a copy of the poster above to print and post near your piano click below.

Best,

David Story