There are a couple of things that really help me achieve noticeable progress at the piano: getting to the piano consistently for ten minutes a day and keeping a practice journal.
Ten minutes is not a lot of time, but it is an easy way “in.” I can always make time for ten minutes at the piano, and if I get there for ten, inevitably it turns into more!
A practice journal can help me get focused right away, especially if I have a limited amount of time to practice. I use a practice journal in three ways:
- Write down what I accomplish in each piece as well as where to start the next time I sit down at the keyboard.
- Track big picture goals, like pieces for a recital.
- Analyze parts of pieces to aid in memory, noting themes and when they recur with slight variations.
Take a look at the inside of my journal here:
Do you use a Practice Journal? Tell me how you use it to focus your practice!
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