Practice Tips!
1. Have a regular, daily practice time. Sometimes it’s easier to do 10 minutes right after school and then another 10 minutes before bed. Wow! 20 minutes a day just like that!
2. A little practice goes a long way! It’s always best to do short practice sessions DAILY, instead of one or two long practice sessions a week. Otherwise the fingers (and brain!) forget what to do!
3. Practice in front of a mirror. Watch yourself in the mirror and see if you have good posture; check the bow hold, relax shoulders, head up straight. No tilting!
4. Captive audiences. Several times a week, make sure you perform for your family! Play in the kitchen while dinner is being prepared – play for the hamsters and the dog! Invite the neighbors!
5. Good lighting. Make sure you have good lighting in the room you are practicing in. Floor lamps are great! Playing in the dark strains the eyes and causes headaches …and missed notes!
6. Standing or sitting? Cello students must always have a good chair to sit on to keep a straight back. Never sit on a couch or bed. Violinists/violists should always practice standing for best posture. Place music at eye level to prevent slouching and neck pain. Tape music on the wall or use a music stand.
7. Getting frustrated? Stop and take a break. Go back to it when you are calm. Give yourself a reward when finished!
Remember: Only practice on the days you eat!! ;)
Two words on the care of stringed instruments: Always and Never.
ALWAYS:
NEVER:
1. Have a regular, daily practice time. Sometimes it’s easier to do 10 minutes right after school and then another 10 minutes before bed. Wow! 20 minutes a day just like that!
2. A little practice goes a long way! It’s always best to do short practice sessions DAILY, instead of one or two long practice sessions a week. Otherwise the fingers (and brain!) forget what to do!
3. Practice in front of a mirror. Watch yourself in the mirror and see if you have good posture; check the bow hold, relax shoulders, head up straight. No tilting!
4. Captive audiences. Several times a week, make sure you perform for your family! Play in the kitchen while dinner is being prepared – play for the hamsters and the dog! Invite the neighbors!
5. Good lighting. Make sure you have good lighting in the room you are practicing in. Floor lamps are great! Playing in the dark strains the eyes and causes headaches …and missed notes!
6. Standing or sitting? Cello students must always have a good chair to sit on to keep a straight back. Never sit on a couch or bed. Violinists/violists should always practice standing for best posture. Place music at eye level to prevent slouching and neck pain. Tape music on the wall or use a music stand.
7. Getting frustrated? Stop and take a break. Go back to it when you are calm. Give yourself a reward when finished!
Remember: Only practice on the days you eat!! ;)
Two words on the care of stringed instruments: Always and Never.
ALWAYS:
- Keep the bow and instrument in its case when not in use.
- Store the instrument in a safe place away from pets and/or siblings!
- Dust off the instrument and strings after each use with a soft cloth.
- Loosen the bow after each use.Remove the shoulder rest from the violin/viola before putting it in the case.
- Make sure the zippers and latches are secure before picking up the case.
- Tell your teacher if you notice any damage.
NEVER:
- Leave your instrument in a car where it can easily be stolen.
- Leave the instrument in a hot or cold place like the trunk of a car, freezer or oven or OUTSIDE.
- Use furniture polish or water to clean the instrument.
- Use the bow as a sword or cat toy.
- Let others play with the instrument, it is your responsibility.
- Put anything on top of the instrument even when it’s in the case, the bridge could be crushed.