Getting The Most Out of Your Music Lessons

If you or someone you know takes music lessons, you probably know learning how to play a musical instrument properly takes a great deal of time and discipline. So it is perfectly normal at one point or another to feel frustrated about someone not practicing their musical instrument as often as you would like. It also can be very challenging at times to keep practicing frequently. So here's a few short tips to help alleviate the frustration, help someone practice more often and improve their progress.

Although some of these tips are geared towards a parent helping their children practice more, these concepts can be applied to any individual involved in music lessons.

Sit nearby.  Even if it's just for several short sessions per week, you can limit distractions by staying close by while your child plays. Get involved by asking them questions, such as how the instrument works or how do you play that song.

Keep the instrument handy and in plain view. Seeing it each day will remind you to practice, and you or someone you know might be more likely to pick it up if it's right there. An instrument stand would be a safe, practical way to keep the instrument in plain view.

Build practice time into his/her daily activities. Setting aside a set time before leaving for school or right after dinner each day will help you or your child remember to make rehearsing a routine.

So next time you find yourself frustrated or discouraged because your child isn't picking up their instrument as often as you think he/she should, try these tips and both you and your child can breathe a sigh of relief.

Larry Bigel is the director of Bigel Music that provides music lessons and private instruction for piano, guitar, drums, voice, violin, trumpet, and many other instruments in the New Tampa, Wesley Chapel area.

http://www.bigelmusic.com