It’s been a while since I have written a blog entry, but it is with good reason, as I have been focused for the past while on my pregnancy and on the birth of our son, Aidan. He is now three months old and we are just starting to get into a routine – of sorts! This has made me reflect on the importance of a routine, which is very important when it comes to music practice.
When children begin singing lessons, for many of them it is an activity that involves a completely new type of discipline. Learning to sing has so many benefits, but there is work involved that some children find daunting. A regular practice routine helps children to overcome these fears, and it helps to develop technique and muscle memory.
It only takes a few minutes of practice time to make a huge amount of difference in a child’s progress – especially when a student first begins to study singing. Connecting with their voice on a daily basis is important, and short, regular daily practice sessions of 10 to 15 minutes in length are better than longer, more sporadic practice sessions. As students begin to progress and improve, the amount of practice will increase, but so too should their love of singing. Students who practise regularly even for short intervals improve far faster than those who practise only occasionally. And, of course, when students make progress they enjoy singing even more.
Parental involvement in setting a regular practice routine at home is so important. I encourage parents and students to find a regular practice time that works for everyone – be it after school and before dinner, or perhaps before other activities such as watching tv. Whatever time is decided upon, setting a regular practice routine helps to make the singing experience more enjoyable for all involved.
As lessons resume this Fall, I encourage all of my students and their parents to reflect on their practice routines, and I look forward to another great year of making music together.