All About Practice

Every time you play music and sing, you make the world a better place! The more you play, the more fun you have; the more fun you have, the more you play!

How often should I, my child, practice?
The very best way to enjoy your instrument or singing is to do some everyday. Instruments, yes the voice is an instrument, love to be used and played. You and your instrument will feel great when you attend to playing each day.

How long should I, my child, practice?
The best way to feel great and reap lots of benefit from practice, is to make sure you do it 5-10 minutes minimum, daily. So, if you miss a day, make sure you play your instrument the next day. It is way too easy to miss one day, then another, and another, thinking… I will get to it tomorrow.

Where should I, my child, practice?
Keep the instrument and music handy, out, and ready to play as easily as just walking by and doing it. Most people like to be close to the family so they can hear accolades and encouragement. As soon as you get home from your lesson, take out your music and your instrument and have them ready to rock!

When is the best time for me, my child, to practice?
The very best time to practice is immediately after the lesson while everything is fresh in the brain and body. A routine is a perfect way to make sure that practicing is not forgotten. Some like to start their day with some music. Or perhaps, right after school or work, is a good time. Another time might be right after dinner. Five to ten minutes is adequate. More is better. Daily is best!

How many times should I, my child, practice a song or exercise?
Any where between 1-3 times daily. No more than 3 times, unless it is at different sittings. Our brain will become complacent if it has too many repetitions. Play very slowly and accurately. Never, never, never, play fast and inaccurately, ever! Later on, or the next day, do the same slow and accurate playing. Repeat each day.

I, my child, did not practice. Shall we skip the lesson?
No, no, no, no, no! If you do not floss, exercise, brush your hair, etc. should you skip doing it again and again? NO! It is always best to come to the lessons regularly and weekly. This maintains continuity, excitement, motivation, new pieces and music, positive reinforcement, follow-up, accountability, as well as a renewal of the fun involved in playing music!

I want to thank you for all of the wonderful work you have done with me. I’m sure I would have given up by now if it were not for your patience and incredible teaching skills.

~ Richard Clark

Cheryl taught my daughter and now Angela is off to a wonderful music career. I would recommend her to kids and adults.

~ Chris Johnson

Cheryl, good news! David was accepted into the (Santa Rosa) preparatory orchestra. He’s very excited.
Thank you! He couldn’t have done it without you.

~ Donald Green

Schools Plus supports music in Santa Rosa’s schools. Thank YOU Cheryl Franklin for the collective impact you make on music in Santa Rosa.

~ John F. Bribiesca