Making the Most Out of your Lesson Time
Your teacher is there to give you guidance and instruction on how to practice your instrument. What I wish to address is the importance of making the most of each of lesson. Chances are you simply have ONE 30-minute lesson a week. That is a very short amount of time when you stop to think about it! Your ability to focus and concentrate is key to receiving the full beneﬁts of every second in your lesson! Here are a few practical ideas to consider when seeking to maximize your lesson time:
1) Arrive on time (or better yet – early). Give yourself time to calmly catch your breath & focus before entering your lesson. That way once your lesson begins, you are truly ready to get to work.
2) Be prepared to listen to what your teacher has to say. Whether it’s suggestions on how to improve or a motivating compliment. If you aren’t truly listening, you won’t hear those important comments.
3) In addition to listening, go a step further keep a lesson notebook. Every constructive criticism can be recorded on paper allowing for quick and easy reference when practicing. This improves focus and will improve your time spent practicing – again, enhancing your lesson experience.
4) Communicate with your teacher.It seems simple, but if a concept is not understood, ask your teacher to explain it. It’s okay to be confused as long as you make it clear that you don’t understand. Just talk to us. That’s what we are here for; to help you grow!
-Hannah Carnett, Piano Instructor