Practice is an essential part of a kid’s learning process as it helps in memorizing and attaining excellence in their endeavors. It would also not be wrong to say that learning would not be possible without proper practice, especially in terms of musical or instrumental training. Riyaz or Abhyaas are the basis of instrumental learning and lay the foundation for attaining perfection and gaining mastery in the art.

Having said that, it is also important to acknowledge the healthy amount of practice that is ideal for wholesome learning. Underpracticing can lead to incomplete and unaccomplished knowledge, whereas over-practicing can put too much strain and pressure on the child.

Therefore it is essential for a child to understand the importance of continuous and sincere practice. It is also important for a child as well as their parents to be aware of the right amount of practice needed while learning an instrument.

So, in this blog, we will be discussing the significant aspects of practice including its importance, the right way to practice a musical instrument, and how frequently a kid should practice an instrument.

What is the importance of practice while learning an instrument?

• Enhances the learning experience

With adequate practice, the child becomes able to grasp the instrumental training more easily and accurately. They become able to keep up with what the teacher is demonstrating, which enhances the learning experience for both the learner as well as the instructor.

• Helps remember notes easily

Regular practice helps a child remember the notes taught by the instructor easily which improves the quality of learning and makes instrumental training more streamlined and effective. It reduces the requirement of going back and forth with the music lessons and makes instrumental learning more smooth and enjoyable for the child.

• Enhances muscle memory

Continuous practice makes it accessible for the mind and the body to grasp the hand movements, postures, and stances taught in the music and instrumental training classes. It helps the mind make the right, achieve the right notes, and produce an accurate rhythm without giving too much thought to it. With regular practice, the movements start coming naturally to the kid.

• Helps attain perfection in finger placement and movement

Appropriate finger placement and hand movement hold a significant place in instrumental training. It can only be perfected with the right amount of practice. Regular practice can master the basics with conviction and authority, which will further lay the ground for advanced or professional training.

All in all, to make instrumental training worthwhile and productive, it is important for a kid to indulge in constant and sincere practice.

How to keep a child motivated and inspired to practice an instrument?

Before learning about the right amount of practice, it is important for parents to know how to encourage their kids to practice their instruments at home and keep them motivated during their practice sessions.

• Encourage your child to practice in a positive and productive manner

Practicing should not be forced on a child, instead, you should encourage your child to indulge in practice in a positive manner. You should demonstrate the benefits of instrumental practice and look for ways to make it fun and interesting so that your child looks forward to the practice sessions.

• Do not replace your child’s favorite activity with practice in their everyday schedule

Even though practicing is extremely important for your child’s instrumental training, do not swap it with something or some other activity that your kid enjoys. Doing so will make your child resentful and reluctant towards practicing and it will also make your child see practicing as a burden or a lethargic activity.

• Show enthusiasm, appreciation, and involvement in their practice sessions

The best way to encourage your child for something is to show active involvement, interest, and participation in it. The same applies to instrumental training as well. You can encourage your child towards regular practice by leading the way for them. Your enthusiasm will make them more enthusiastic about practicing regularly.

• Offer a calm and suitable environment for practicing

Another way to encourage your child to practice their instruments is by providing them with a favorable and welcoming environment for the same. Create a nice ambience for their practice, and keep their things and instruments organized, if possible provide a dedicated practice space for them. Also, try maintaining a calm and quiet environment while they are practicing.

How often is it recommended for kids to practice an instrument while learning?

Now that we have discussed all the essential aspects related to practicing an instrument, it is time we acknowledge and answer the big question, i.e., How often a kid should practice an instrument? The answer to this question is variable and relies on two essential factors, first, the age of the child, and second, the level of training. In most cases, both these factors go hand in hand, so let us proceed and learn the appropriate answer to this question.

• For beginners

Kids that are at the beginner level of their training are generally quite young or even toddlers. Parents should try to engage these kids in active practice sessions of thirty to forty-five minutes. Or the best duration and frequency for them is ‘whenever they feel like it’.

Parents should gauge their kid’s instincts and get them to practice their instruments accordingly.

• For intermediate learners

Learners who are at the intermediate level can go ahead with dedicatedly practicing for one hour daily. Practicing for one hour daily in a favorable environment with sincerity can transform their training and make their skills more sharp and precise.

• For advanced learners

Advanced learners who are looking to attain professional expertise should keep at least two dedicated hours for intense practice. Attaining perfection in playing a musical instrument requires expert training and guidance from a seasoned instructor or musician, generally available at a quality music school along with individual dedication and practice.

Conclusion!

This blog helps you understand the importance of practice in learning a musical instrument while suggesting the adequate amount of practice needed at different training levels.

So, it is important for you to encourage and help your child practice properly along with taking them to one of the finest music schools for their instrumental training like Dhwani Sangeet Mahavidyalaya.