Practice

"WHY DO I NEED TO PRACTICE?"

Dictionary.com defines the word "practice" as: to perform or do something repeatedly in order to acquire skill or proficiency. So, in other words, you should practice your instrument in order to sound and play BETTER.

If you've ever played sports, you know that you have to practice to improve your game. You have to practice as an individual in order for the team to improve. You also have to practice as a team in order to function well together. Band works the same way!! Unless every individual has taken the time to practice and improve on their music, the band won't sound good. Music is a PHYSICAL skill, just like dribbling, passing, kicking, tackling, or shooting free throws. Unless you teach your body how to play music by PRACTICING the skills involved, YOU WILL NEVER IMPROVE, and YOUR BAND won't sound good. Period.

How To Practice

1. Set aside a specific time for music practice and use it consistently.
2. Practice in a quiet room without the TV on.
3. Practice with correct hand position, posture, breath support and embouchure. This will be easier with a good chair and a music stand.
4. Practice the assigned stuff first.
5. Practice the hard stuff first. Go slow until it's right, then gradually speed up. Break it down into managable chunks (one measure at a time, or even one beat at a time, if necessary), then put it back together. Going from the beginning to the end of a piece of music with mistakes is NOT practicing.
6. Practice AT LEAST five days a week for a minimum of fifteen consecutive, uninterrupted minutes.
7. Wind players should warm up by playing several long, slow notes. (As many beats as you can hold the note with a good sound.)
8. If you get frustrated, take a break, but then go back and try again.
9. GET YOUR PARENT TO SIGN YOUR AGENDA BOOK FOR YOUR GRADE!

Check out some other links about practicing:

How to Get to Carnegie Hall

Band Parent Signature Form