Practice, Practice, Practice ( Part 2)

In case you have not noticed, I have practicing on my mind. This is because of circumstances that have happened to me during this summer. I remind you all to practice and to record your times in your book.  Recording time is to make you accountable for what you are asked to do. 

You'll notice that most practice resembles one of the following distinct patterns.

1. Broken record method

This is where we simply repeat the same thing over and over. From a distance it might look like practice, but much of it is simply mindless repetition.

2. Autopilot method

This is where we activate our autopilot system and coast. Run through a piece from beginning to end without actually thinking.

3. Hybrid method

Then there's the combined approach. For most of my life, practicing meant playing through a piece until I heard something I didn't like, then I'd stop, repeat the passage over and over until it started to sound better, and then resume playing until I heard the next thing I wasn't pleased with, and  I'd repeat the whole process over again.

Each week I remind you to do the computer activities, practice your assignments, and  finish all your theory work, however, there are  only a few who take care of the job at hand.  It makes my day when  students come with smiles and excitement about their lesson. I look forward to seeing the eager ways you approach your music.  You have no idea how much I appreciate your hard work this summer.  Lessons for the fall session will begin on August 26th.

Our second performance date is Saturday, August 17th at 2:30.  We will play at Cottage Village, just north of 4th on Frankford.  Please make an effort  to attend  and participate if you can.  It will last about 30 minutes.