10 Tips For Supporting Music Practice At Home.

“If I were a dictator, I would eliminate the word “practice” from the vocabulary, for it becomes a bogey, a nightmare…
I would ask: “Have you already made and enjoyed music today? If not – go and make music”. - Pianist, Artur Schnabel

Here are some ideas which have worked well for my students and my own children over the years. I hope they may be helpful to you too!


1. Help your child set up a special place at home to play the instrument.
A music stand is very helpful!

2. Establish a time each day to play. Some children are at their best in the morning, before school. Some parents set a time after the evening bath when the child is relaxed, but not tired.

3. Consider using the phrase "playing time" rather than "practice time."

4. If possible, be a positive part of your child's playing time. Sit with your child while she plays and ask, "Show me what you're learning."

5. Praise your child for each step forward.

6. Encourage other family members to applaud the child's efforts. Positive attention is a great motivator.

7. Never make practice time a punishment; it will make your child dislike, or even hate, daily practice if you do so. Rather, make practice time enjoyable by showing him your support and enthusiasm.

8. Regular, shorter playing sessions throughout the week is far more beneficial than one or two long sessions before the lesson.

9. Provide positive role models. Bring your child to hear amateur or professional musicians perform live music.

10. Remember that there are always peaks and valleys in the learning process. You and your child should expect times of discouragement, accept them, and focus on the positive fact that they are learning to make music. Remind them that everything worth doing takes time and effort.