How To Practice Music Efficiently

How to Practice Music Efficiently

1/2/2023

How To Practice Music Efficiently

I have an undergraduate degree in Music Education, a Masters in Music (Conducting), and I'm working on my Doctorate in Music Education. One thing that has been blatantly missing from my education is the idea of how to practice! My major instrument was trumpet, and I was in MANY ensembles every year (not to mention preparing for lessons and juries). While I was given musical assignments, I really didn't have instructors explain to me how to practice music. Whether you are wondering how to practice an instrument or how to practice singing, I hope some of the information here will be helpful to you!

If I were to distill my main advice into just a few bullet points, I'd recommend:
• Create specific practice goals that work on smaller segments. Track your goals!
• Learn to "play" (gamify!) and enjoy the process of practicing.
• Practice self-love: look for the positive and acknowledge your success!
• Learn to be your own best vocal coach - work with experts and learn to apply the techniques to your own practice.

How To Practice

This video walks through some ideas about how to design and follow a practice plan. Set and achieve goals as you learn to practice music.

Goal Setting and Motivation

Learn to practice music in a way that is smarter. Hard work is good, but smart practice is better. Remember that even the idea of practice is something that is fluid and can be changed as you learn new practice techniques

Learn to Love Your Voice

As featured in Barbershop Harmony Society's Blog: Learn to Love Your Own Voice

It is COMMON to feel insecure about your own voice. Learn to love your singing voice with this video - part science, part pep talk .

Create Vocal Exercises

Not sure how to fix a musical problem? Create an exercise - make it a fun challenge as you practice! You don't need to wait for a coach to show to how to fix something - allow your creativity to do the work for you.

How to Warm Up Your Voice

This video about how to warm up your voice is designed to help you assess what your voice needs next and choose the next best vocal exercise or vocal warmup to get your singing your best!

Be Your Own Voice Teacher

Be your own best voice teacher with these basics! From breathing to alignment to vocal production, this video will guide you through the most important aspects to focus on as you practice singing. Connect with your inner vocal coach!