Homework (Practice)

Regular home practice is essential to any musician’s success, whether they are a beginning band member, play in a professional orchestra, or even become a famous rock star.

Here are some guidelines:

• Try to practice EVERYDAY.
• On extra busy days or even when on vacation, just five minutes of practice will be MUCH better than none at all.
• Twenty to thirty minutes a day is a suitable goal, however…
• Accomplished musicians practice much more than this.
• Focus on results not just putting in the time.
• Set small goals for each practice session.
• Find a regular time and place for practicing, free of distractions.  Make it a part of your daily routine.
• Play everything “musically.”  Even scales can be played in a beautiful manner.
• Remember the fundamentals (posture, embouchure, breathing, hand position, etc.)
• Always review what is played in class – This is automatically your daily homework.
• Find a private teacher and be faithful in mastering their assignments.
• Play occasionally for family members and friends.  This is fun for everyone, especially during the Holidays.
• End each session with something just for fun!

Practice Record  (15% of grade)

• A record of home practice will be kept and must be signed by a parent each week. 

• Students receive one point per minute practiced, with a maximum of 120 awarded per week.  Though 120 points is the maximum amount of credit, 120 minutes per week should be considered the “minimum” amount of practice time per week. 
• For band members to keep up in class and progess as they should, it is recommended that they practice approximately 30 minutes each day outside band class and rehearsals.