Practicing Efficiently

"My schedule is crazy! I have only 15 minutes that I can practice today...what should I focus on? This is an excellent question! With such busy schedules and demands all around, creating time to practice can seem challenging, and sometimes just about impossible!

Why practice in between lessons? Practicing singing or other instruments is physical; it's muscles, brain, nervous system, coordination, breathing, and pretty much like any other sport, we do best with repetition. I have found that when students take a moment to set up a basic practice schedule for each week, they thrive. Whether it's 15 minutes a day or 45 minutes a day, or two 15 minute sessions a day, that consistency leads to better singing, better playing, and more fun! And, even with tiny amounts of time available, with maximum focus, it can yield excellent results! Also, when designing your practice routine, be sure to leave room for the schedule to have some flexibility!

The next question is 1) what to practice and 2) how to practice. There is no question that it is very helpful to have specific goals for each practice session. Perhaps there is one particular spot in the music that would benefit from a slow methodical review for 5 minutes, or certain scales need improvement, or perhaps you would like time to consider the meaning of the music and how you wish to interpret it. In thinking ahead to your next practice session, consider what activities in the practice session would help you the most, and would leave you with a sense of satisfaction at completion of the session, however short or lengthy the session. It's a good idea to take short breaks during practicing so that the body and mind can refresh. And don't forget to stop practicing before becoming fatigued physically! Practice time is your time, and a chance to learn the music and also learn how you learn best. Practicing is a chance to engage with the music you love on a regular basis during the week, and have fun! Want more tips about practicing? Contact me with your questions! - Zoe Vandermeer copyright July 30, 2025

www.vandermeervoicestudio.com