Plan Your Practice

You Need:

• Schedule
• Timer
• Metronome

Step 1: Preparation

• Fill in your Practice Schedules.
• Ask your teacher to help set priorities for this week.
  • For daily exercises, scales etc.:
    • Subdivide each exercise or technique into 3 to 10 minute segments.
  • For your repertoire:
    • Decide how long you will practice each piece.
    • Divide the time and piece into managable practice sessions.
    • Determine one priority to work on today for each piece.
      (ex. intonation, shifting, dynamics, etc.)

Step 2: Practice

• Set the timer for your first planned practice session. Begin practicing. Don't stop until the timer rings.
• Set the timer for the next practice session and continue to practice.
• Important: Do not exceed or shorten the time you’ve planned for each exercise. You can make changes on tomorrow’s schedule.
• Use your metronome! You will develop an impeccable sense of rhythm.

Step 3: Review Your Progress

• Rest for at least 15 minutes after every hour of practice.
• Review what you’ve accomplished and write changes for tomorrow.