Practice Guidelines

This is an excerpt from my Studio Contract that outlines practice guidelines for students of different levels.

PRACTICING GUIDELINES

Practice is the key to success! It is essential for students to practice 5 days a week for them to learn and excel to their best ability. If that kind of practice cannot be maintained, the student will not advance as quickly. Practice may be split up into smaller segments (e.g. practice one song and then take a break) if that is better for the individual as concentration during practice is important. **Note to parents: Don’t expect to hear one selection in its entirety. The key to a good performance is to practice the tough spots until they become easy spots. Only then should the piece be played all the way through.
 
Practice guideline:
Beginners in the first six months require 5 to 10 minutes a day practicing with a parent or older sibling.
Beginners in the second half of their first year need about 15 minutes a day, sometimes with help.
Students with 30 minute lessons, 20-30 minutes, 5 times a week.
Students with 45 minute lessons (Gr 3&4),  40-45 minutes, 5 times a week.
Students with 60 minute lessons (Gr 5,6,7,8) 300 minutes weekly