As a parent who struggled to encourage four children taking
piano lessons to do their daily practice, I developed the following
strategies:
- Make music practice a routine in the home. Agree with your music student on a time and stick to that.
- Provide a conducive place to practice, including plenty of light and quiet (pianos and televisions don't mix). Though the piano need not be expensive, it should be kept tuned and the keys in good condition.
- Occasionally have an audience for the child while practicing. When my two older children resisted practicing and grew tired of me as the sole listener, I sat their baby brother in his infant seat near the piano and introduced him as the audience. What had been drudgery now became a chance to show off for their little brother.
- Example is a powerful motivator. If you play the piano, let your child see you practicing. Play duets together.
- If you cannot play the piano, consider taking lessons. Encourage each other.
- Attend recitals. Be enthusiastic in your applause and praise.
- Make it fun. A favorite activity in our home is to "name that tune." One person plays the first few measures of a familiar song and the others name the title.
- When skill and interest allow, encourage your child to compose his own music.
- Provide opportunities for your budding student to play. Family Night is a good place to start.
- Appeal to her interests. If your child likes Broadway tunes, purchase a book of show tunes. Make sure the music is appropriate to her age level.
