PRACTICING
Practicing is a vital part of every musician's routine. There are many different ways to practice your instrument. Here are a few tips to help make this process easier!
1. Practice with a metronome!
2. Make sure you have a space dedicated to practicing somewhere in the house.
3. DON'T GET DISTRACTED! Put your phone, video games, or other electronics away during this time.
4. Practice in small portions throughout the day! 5-10 minutes at a time is a lot easier than 30 min to an hour in one sitting.
5. Email Mr. Schroeder! I would be happy to help answer any questions you may have.
Below are a few links, videos, and notes to help you with your practicing. And remember.....
HAVE FUN!!!!! :)
Metronome
A metronome is a device that produces an audible click or other sound at a regular interval that can be set by the user, typically in beats per minute. Musicians use the device to practice playing to a regular pulse. The beats are like quarter-notes; they both have the same lengths. Tap your foot along with the metronome to help keep the pulse!
HOW TO FIND A METRONOME
1. Go to Google
2. Type in "metronome"
3. A bar with a + and - sign with the number "100" should appear
4. The lower the number, the slower the clicks or beats. The higher the number, the faster the clicks or beats
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Tips:
1. Practice slow! Very slow!
2. Speed up tempo when you feel comfortable enough
3. Remember! Two clicks = half note, 4 clicks = whole note
4. Two eighth notes can fit inside on click
Sample Practice Routine
STEP 1: WARM UP
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Make sure to warm up your instrument! Take time to go through all the notes you know, and play them for a longer length. This is called long tones. Percussionists, it is important to warm up your hands with 8th notes and quarter notes with the metronome
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STEP 2: SCALES
Run through some technique exercises! 5th grade scales are Bb, Eb, and F Major scale. 4th grade scale is Bb Major.
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STEP 3: CONCERT MUSIC
Play through concert music with a metronome. Practice nice and slow until you are comfortable with the notes and can play them in time. Play them for a friend or family member!
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STEP 4: FUN MUSIC!
This can be whatever you want to play! Practicing should be fun! Make sure to dedicate time to play music that you find interesting or fun. Have parents help you find music online or on YouTube!
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RECOMMENDED PRACTICE SESSION TIME: 15 - 20 minutes
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I would love to see practice videos! Feel free to email videos to Mr. Schroeder at aschroeder@ecusd7.org
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HAPPY PRACTICING!!