The title of this blog might be a bit misleading. You may think it means dedicating a whole day to practice, but that’s not what I intended. It’s quite the opposite: it’s about fitting in a few efficient practice sessions with your instrument during a busy week.
Let’s consider a typical week filled with work, school or homework and the usual chores. Add in the time needed to spend with friends and family, and what are you left with? Usually just a few scattered minutes each day, maybe more during the weekend.
As a Chicago music instructor, I often find that organization is key. Some of my students manage to squeeze in 20 minutes on the piano in the morning. They wake up, eat breakfast, shower, and before heading out, they dedicate some time to music practice. (First tip: you don’t have to complete an entire assignment in one session; select small portions to focus on.)
Another group prefers to practice after returning home. They have their snack and take a breather before getting into their homework or prepping for dinner. Practicing becomes a non-negotiable part of their routine. (Second tip: treat practice as essential. Make it clear that you will practice today.)
Another group of student will come home, have a snack and take a breather for a few minute, then, before homework for the children, or before dinner for the adult, they make a point to practice (Second tip: you need to make a point of it, as in “it is not negotiable, I’ll practice today”). They can do that if they are not traveling that week or spend a vacation away from home.
Usually all of my student have some time during the weekend. Ah! The weekend. It has saved so many of us from feeling miserable during a lesson. We can polish up a piece we’ve been working on for a few weeks, we can tackle a particularly tricky passage, or a difficult concept, we can get lost in a the repetition of a pattern to “print” it in our DNA. That time has transform many of us from mere hobbyist to someone who actually cares about the craft.
When I hear that someone doesn’t have the time to practice, I first look into their schedule and gauge where we can find a few minutes here and there to get the job done. I am an understanding teacher and try to cater the load of assignments to what the student can manage (Third tip: don’t be absolute like “I’m going to achieve this for this week”, instead learn to manage yourself and your expectations. The goal is not to be frustrated).
Remember, the time spent on your instrument, whether it’s piano, drums, or any other is your time. It’s about you. Whatever the activity, it’s time you can claim for yourself. And, most importantly, never forget: It’s supposed to be fun!
By integrating these practices into your routine and considering the guidance of your favorite Chicago music instructor, you’ll find that making time for music is not only achievable but also enjoyable!
