How to Practice
When I’m Not Around

1. Locate the problem. Figure out which note(s) need to be fixed. If there’s more than one, find the one that needs to be fixed the most. It can be a note that’s out of tune, a note that’s out of rhythm, or a note that you’re not reading correctly.

2. Figure out what it should be. After you’ve found a note that’s wrong, figure out how to change it to make it sound right.

3. Repeat it the correct way. Play it over and over again, making sure that it happens the correct way every time. Don’t get lazy, and don’t turn your ears off.

? When you’re repeating something, you have to pay very close attention to make sure that the right thing happens every time.

? How much should you repeat something? Repeat it until you feel like you’ve mastered it. When you can do it right any time you want.

? Very important: Don’t pick a spot to practice that’s too big. Never more than two measures, for any reason. There is no point in practicing a spot that’s bigger than that. You need to be able to focus on one note and change it.

? Playing through a piece is important, but it shouldn’t be the majority of your practice. The majority of your practice should be working on spots to make yourself better. Then, when you’ve fixed the notes, you can play it through.

? Be sure to review old pieces at the end of your practice, because those are the pieces where you can really show off how good you are.

? Make sure that you use your good playing position all the time!

Have Fun!

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