Success in any venture comes from 95% drive and effort and 5% talent and inspiration. It also comes from knowing what to do, how to do it and the willingness to work over a long period of time to get the job done well. With this in mind, I offer the following suggestions that will guide you in helping you help your child be a successful instrumental student.
1. Do not let others play your child’s instrument
2. Have PATIENCE in repeatedly reminding your child to practice daily.
3. Give ENCOURAGEMENT when the going gets rough. Some things in music are learned easily; others require intensive and repeated application. Parental sympathy and understanding are important.
FAVORABLE PRACTICE CONDITIONS
1. Schedule regular time for practice (at least 30 minutes or more daily). The first few weeks 10-15 minutes per day will be adequate.
2. See that proper physical conditions prevail: a quiet room, adequate lighting and a music stand.
3. Keep the instrument in first - rate mechanical condition. Nothing is more discouraging than a key or valve that sticks or a reed that is defective.
4. Never use practice as a punishment. It is advisable to reschedule a practice period to allow for conflicts with important activities, but avoid giving preference to any and all conflicts.
5. Practice material will be assigned at each class. This should be worked on each day then filled in with anything else the student wishes to play. Students are encouraged to work ahead of the class if they can.
PARENTAL HELP
I. Remind your child to practice new work first.
II. When wrong notes and hesitations keep recurring, suggest the following:
a. Practice in short sections, a few measures at a time.
b. Practice more slowly.
C. Check carefully the written notes to make sure they have been
accurately read.
Welcome to band; an exciting time in a child’s life!!
Thank you for your cooperation,
Jackie Flewell, Director