It’s that time of year again! People all over the world are making commitments to lose weight, eat
healthier, drink less, quit smoking, work better and relax more.
Now is also a great time to get into some better routines with your piano playing. Here are 5 easy
ways to expand your musical life in the coming year.
1. Practice for at least 10 minutes, at least 3 times a week. Yes, daily practice is ideal – but when
you’re aiming for 3 times a week you’re more likely to hit the mark, and anything you do more is a
bonus.
2. Play your favorite song, at least 3 times a week. Sometimes we forget that piano playing is
supposed to be fun. We may hold off on what we love to play or what comes easier, because we’re so
focused on what we still want to improve. Don’t forget to give yourself the gift of playing what YOU
love.
3. Perform a song for a friend or loved one, at least once a month. If distance or busy schedules are
an issue, just call the person on the phone and invite them to listen through the receiver while you
play the music across the miles!
4. Record yourself playing and listen back, at least once a month. Evaluate objectively and make a
note of things you would like to improve.
5. Sing along with your playing, at least once a week. If you’re shy about singing, wait until no one is
home. Singing along increases your awareness of how well you are playing the rhythm!
So while you’re resolving to improve your personal and work life this January, don’t forget about your
musical life!
One Response
Hi Lisa,
Wow! Thank you for your outline of 5 positive goals for learning piano. I have been hitting it hard since Dec. 20 when I got into the membership, and I am thrilled with the results! Your 5 goals have come at a perfect time for me. My 2 week vacation from work is coming to an end, and so once again I will be plunged deep into days and nights of strict time management. I was enjoying my “private lessons” so much, taking as much time as I needed on each lesson, practicing some days for a couple of hours (broken up in small sessions of course) and really seeing amazing progress! I was beginning to worry how I would remain as excited as I am about the pace and results I am seeing in my playing after going back to work. Your suggestions are wonderful! Now I will not be fearful of losing ground, planning meaningful practice sessions, and most importantly, having FUN on my piano! Thank you, Lisa, for your experience, your insight, your most amazing teaching skills, and especially for your genuine love of piano and desire to share it with me!
Your enthusiastic and hopeful student!
Karen
P.S. Please share more of your playing with us. It is truly an inspiration to hear you play.