Throughout my nearly two decades of teaching music, I have identified six crucial factors that significantly impact a student's musical journey: the Six Pillars. These pillars are Routine, Effective Practice Time, Homework Books, Essential Tools, Accountability Partners, and Incentives. They serve as the cornerstone for musical development.
Over the years, it has become evident that students who embrace these principles find their journey enjoyable and achieve remarkable success in their musical endeavours.
The Power of Routine:
Routine is the secret sauce to success in music studies. From my years of experience, I've noticed that students thrive when they practice at the same time every day. I recommend making this a habit as soon as they get home from school – a dedicated time for musical growth.
Effective Practice Time:
The minimum effective practice time for students is at least five minutes, five times a week. As they progress each year, the goal is to gradually increase this time by five minutes. For instance, a first-year student should aim for five minutes, while a fourth-year student should target 20 minutes, and so on.
The more time a student practices, the more they will improve. However, the focus is on sustainability. Consistency is key!
Homework Book Review:
Before each practice session, students should take a moment to review their homework book. This ensures they know what to focus on and any instructions I've provided. It's also a great practice to mark off the days they've dedicated to their musical journey.
Essential Practice Tools:
Two indispensable tools for effective practice are a metronome and a countdown timer. When practising, using a metronome to keep time and a countdown timer to stay focused and ensure proper time management is vital. I reinforce a saying with my students: If the metronome’s not on, you’re doing it wrong!
Accountability Partners / Parental Assistance:
Having the support of family, friends, or a mentor is a significant factor in achieving personal goals. Numerous studies suggest that having an accountability partner can significantly increase your chances of success.
If students are under the age of 10, it is strongly recommended that they receive parental assistance. Parents can help their children stay focused and engaged during practice by being nearby. Parents should also ensure that their child keeps track of their practice days in the homework book.
Incentives / Stakes for Long-Term Goals:
Understanding the long-term benefits of learning music can be challenging for young minds. To bridge this gap, consider offering short-term incentives for completing a certain number of practice sessions. Rewards can help make the journey even more enjoyable and motivating.
External motivators can be advantageous for students of all ages. When dealing with teenagers or adults, instead of offering rewards for practice, creating a goal with real consequences if they fail to meet it can help them develop self-discipline. For instance, they could join a band or ensemble with weekly rehearsals and regular performances, enrol in examinations, or arrange a performance in front of friends, family, or strangers.