Practicing
It is essential that you practice regularly to achieve consistent progress. You will be told what to practice and you will do so daily. You should practice your technique every day whether you are preparing a snare drum or drum set lesson.
Practice is mandatory in order to continue studying with me. I have the option of dismissing students who are not practicing to my satisfaction.
You must have goals in mind when you practice. Going through the motions just to get the time in will do you no good. Quality practice is what you are striving for. Work on the specific things that I tell you to work on. You can get a lot done if you concentrate on quality and accuracy!
The following suggested practice times are based on a six day per week practice schedule.
7 - 8 years old 20 - 25 minutes a day
9 -10 years old 30 - 40 minutes a day
11-12 years old 40 - 50 minutes a day
13-15 years old 6 - 12 hours per week
16 and up 9 - 12 hours per week
These practice times are for lessons and SBSMA related performance classes. If you are involved in other musical activities, you may need extra time.
Practice Calendars
I have practice calendars that I will send home with students during the school year. On these calendars students will note their starting time and their ending time for each practice session. There is a space on the sheet for parents to sign.
Conflicts
Young students sometimes get involved in other extra curricular, non-music related activities, such as Little League or Soccer. I have no problem with young children being active in sports, after all, we're only young once,so let's enjoy it! I do have a problem if these conflicts become a reason for a decline in progress at music lessons. In other words, being involved in sports does not excuse you from your practice responsibilities. I no longer accept sports-related activities as an excuse for unprepared lessons. If you choose to get involved in other activities, then you will need to schedule your time, so you have time for everything, including a little time for yourself to relax!
I can assign less material during peak game periods. Let me know if that will help. Basically, I am in the music business and my time and efforts need to go to those who want to advance themselves and their drumming skills. If these conflicts become unworkable, then I may ask you to make a decision or recommend that you discontinue lessons.
