Practice records

The expectation is that students will practice a MINIMUM of 90 minutes a week. The best way to practice is to establish an effective routine. Each practice session should last at least 1/2 hour and not longer than 90 minutes. A metronome is an invaluable aid. My suggestions are:

WARM-UPat least 5 minutes
Woodwinds- long tone exercises, scales and scale studies, range studies, articulation exercises
Brass- long tones, lip slurs, articulation exercises
Percussion- muscle stretching, rudiment studies( with careful attention to grip and stick height), keyboard percussion scales and scale patterns

TECHNICAL PRACTICE-at least 10 minutes
This is where students focus on trouble areas in any music being studied. Emphasis should be on correct fingerings, dynamic contrast, articulations, correct rhythms, phrasing. Percussionists should focus on sticking patterns, tempo and stick height. ALL PRACTICING SHOULD BEGIN AT A SLOW TEMPO AND INCREASE ONLY WHEN ALL AREAS ARE CORRECT.

PERFORMANCE at least 10 minutes
This is where students play through selections as if in a public performance. Don't stop for mistakes, but make mental notes of where errors occur to practice during technical practice time. Count all rests.

FUN STUFF at least 5 minutes
Pick any songs you enjoy playing. Try to pick out songs by ear. Play along with the radio. Practice with a younger or older sibling. Have some fun!!

REMEMBER: WE PRACTICE SO WE CAN GET BETTER SO WE CAN HAVE MORE FUN. PRACTICE DOES NOT MAKE PERFECT- PERFECT PRACTICE MAKES US PERFECT. WE PERFORM THE WAY WE PRACTICE.

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Last update: Monday, January 5, 2009 at 8:18:43 AM
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