Practice: A Summary

• Practice is a vital factor for musical progress and enjoyment
• The amount of time spent practising varies, depending on the stage of learning and the individual needs of the learner
• Teachers should provide a model for learners to develop a range of practice strategies
• From the outset, teachers should promote independent learning
• Practice is more effective when technical skills are directly related to ‘real’ music
• Parents/carers and teachers should encourage and support, but not force their children to practise

Some learners may have less capacity to practise at home and will benefit from support from schools or music centres to provide a space to practise between instrumental music lessons.