Practicing

Getting students to practice is one of the most frustrating parts of my job. It's not always fun to do, students have to make time to do it and it must become a habit. Sometimes middle school students just don't want to do it. Plain and simple. The fact of the matter is, sometimes they just need to be told to do it--even if it means setting the timer for 15 or 20 minutes. The way I look at it, practicing an instrument is their band homework. Just as it is important to do math and English homework, the same is true for playing an instrument. Students aren't going to get better at skills that they don't practice.

I understand that there are a lot of things that take time in today's world, but homework is important. The following link is an article about some research done showing the relationship between practicing and increased test scores. It's really interesting because more areas appear to be impacted than previously thought! More evidence of the importance of music in schools and practicing at home!

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/11/081104132916.htm

Have a great Thanksgiving!