In-School practice

I have been reflecting on how successful the in-school lessons have been, and while some pupils have been making wonderful progress, it isn’t always the same for everyone. I think the crucial difference is what happens at home. Of course, some children enjoy learning the piano more than others, but I definitely think that not everyone realises how tricky learning an instrument is, how much support and encouragement is needed to help a primary age child learn an instrument effectively.

I do understand that we all lead busy lives, but the children are very young and really do need your guidance and support, especially at the beginning. So here is a list of tips to help, as it isn’t always obvious what you need to do. I don't want to sound like I am criticising here, but my aim is that as you have all invested time and money in the lessons, it would be great to make sure that you are getting the best possible return for your investment.

Choosing your instruments

1. Does your child have a good instrument to practice on?

   Without these, it is extremely challenging to learn an instrument. A starter instrument for piano, ukulele, guitar is between £20 and £30. It is only when you know that your child is really committed to learning that you need to splash out on more expensive instruments.

2. Is there a good place to practice?

   Without these, it is extremely challenging to learn an instrument. If the keyboard is on a stand and there is a stool and pedal, it makes practice easier and more enjoyable.

3. Make sure your child comes to the lesson prepared.

   They have their books (instrument if applicable) and have practiced what they learnt in the previous lesson. Your child will really feel more secure and happy if they feel they have arrived prepared and the lesson will be really enjoyable.

4. Don’t worry that you don’t know much about music yourself.

   You definitely don’t need to have had a musical background to support the children. Especially at the beginning, it is enough to make sure that your child knows what they are practicing and how to look for help if needed. Of course, I sometimes ask the children to teach you a skill, or how to find notes as this can help them learn better.

5. Use the communications book.

   Please read what I write in it after the lesson with your child. Make sure it is all clear. Please write in it as well. The more you can tell me how the week has gone, the better I can tailor the lessons to make them as effective as possible. Please share their successes as well as any difficulties. This is really effective in keeping the child engaged if they feel that what happens at home can be recognised in the class.

6. Encourage your child to practice every day.

   Show them how much you value their practice and achievements with constant praise and encouragement. The parental role in supporting the children learning their instrument is beyond crucial and is quite often the difference between a child successfully learning an instrument or not. If your child is struggling with practicing or hasn’t been able to practice on a certain week, it is so important to let me know before the lesson.

7. Use the various apps and websites

   I send to support their practice. The videos, backing tracks are all really useful in helping them progress smoothly without too much frustration. If you struggle to use these, please let me know what I can do to help. I know CDs are a pain to use, but there are alternatives if you can’t use them. If you feel a video tutorial would help, I can try to make one.

8. Come to a studio lesson during the holidays.

   If you have never met me, it is definitely really worthwhile. There is so much benefit to be had if you can watch a lesson in progress. I can also discuss how to effectively support practice at home. I have found that the parents and children who have booked a holiday lesson tend to find it very helpful during the following term.