In 2016, let’s have some fun with New Years’ Resolutions! You already know that music brings joy and pleasure to your life– we would like to challenge you to take your musicianship to the next level in 2016. This January, join other RSM students in a January Practice Jamboree, and see just how far you can go!
The GOAL: To increase your current weekly practice time by 50%
Believe it or not, this will be a simple resolution for you to make AND to keep! To help motivate you, students who reach their practice resolution goals each week will also earn a chance to enter our January Raffle Drawing for a $20 gift card to the local business of your choice!
Here’s how it works: First, decide which level music student you are. Next, add the recommended amount of minutes to your daily practice routine. Next, record your progress on your Weekly Practice Goals Sheet and have a parent or guardian initial your progress daily. Finally, celebrate your weekly progress with your teacher at your weekly music lesson!
Level 1: Students who practice 1 hour or less weekly. This translates into 10 minutes daily. New Year’s Resolution: Increase your practice time to 1 1/2 hours per week, or 15 minutes daily.
Level 2: Students who practice 2 hours or less weekly. This translates into 20 minutes daily. New Year’s Resolution: Increase your practice time to 3 hours per week, or 30 minutes daily.
Level 3: Students who practice 3 hours or less weekly. This translates into 30 minutes daily. New Year’s Resolution: Increase your practice time to 4 1/2 hours per week, or 45 minutes daily.
Level 4: Students who practice 5 or more hours per week. New Year’s Resolution: Practice your heart out and blow us away with your practice reports! Students at this level will also be invited to schedule a special performance for friends & family!
Tips, Tricks & How to Track your Progress
Tip 1) Make a video recording of your first weekly practice session. (Ask your parent to help with this.) Each week, compare the videos from the previous and current week. Compare the very first video of the month to the last video in January. Can you tell any difference? If so, share your videos with the RSM front desk staff so we can also celebrate your progress!
Tip 2) Instead of cramming all of your practice into a single block of time just prior to your weekly lesson, spread it out! Make a goal to practice every day if possible, even if just for a few minutes. Some students set aside blocks of time throughout the day and practice in the morning, afternoon, and evening for 10-15 minutes at a time.
Tip 3) Dedicate about 5 minutes of your practice time to warm-ups and cool downs, just like a regular exercise routine. Finger and vocal exercises and other forms of warm-ups are crucial to becoming a good player. Not only will it increase your flexibility, it will also reduce the danger of injuries.
