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10 Benefits of Regular Practice for Young Musicians

Monday, December 19, 2022 by Judy Stafford | Practice


Music lessons and practice goes hand in hand. And with young musicians, this responsibility lies so much on the adults to oversee that the student practices regularly. Sometimes, all it takes is for us to see the benefits of what regular practice means for our young musicians, because I know as an adult who is investing in private music education for your child, you already know the benefits of what music can do for young minds. 😉


So, what do young musicians benefit from regular practice? 

1. Improved technical ability and musical skills
By practicing regularly, young musicians can improve their ability to play their instrument or sing. This can include developing their dexterity, control, and accuracy, as well as their ability to read music and understand musical notation.

2. Increased confidence and self-esteem
As young musicians see themselves making progress and improving through regular practice, they can gain confidence in their abilities. This can boost their self-esteem and make them more willing to take on new challenges.

3. Better understanding and appreciation of music
Through regular practice, young musicians can develop a deeper understanding of the music they are playing. This can include learning about the different elements of music, such as melody, harmony, and rhythm, as well as the different music vocabulary, expressions, styles and genres of music.

4. Development of discipline and focus
Regular practice requires discipline and focus, which can help young musicians to develop these important skills. These skills can carry over into other areas of their life, such as their schoolwork and extracurricular activities.

5. Greater ability to express themselves creatively through music
As young musicians develop their skills through regular practice, they can learn to express themselves more creatively through music. This can include improvising, composing, and performing.

6. Enhanced ability to concentrate and focus
Regular practice can help young musicians to develop the ability to concentrate and focus for extended periods of time. Slowly increasing expectations during practice will help to gradually extend their concentration and focus. When they are focused and practicing, avoid interrupting them when they make a mistake. They can usually problem solve this on their own, and we only help if we see that they really need/are asking for help. 

7. Improved coordination and physical control
Playing a musical instrument or singing requires a high level of physical coordination and control. Through regular practice, young musicians can improve their coordination and physical control, which can have positive effects on their overall physical development.

8. Increased cognitive development and problem-solving skills
Regular practice can engage a young musician's mind and help to develop their cognitive abilities. This can include improving their memory, recall, and problem-solving skills. They are able to notice patterns and forms within musical pieces once they are able to play a piece with ease.

9. Enhanced memory and recall
Playing music involves remembering and recalling a wide range of information, including musical notation, technical skills, and musical concepts. Through regular practice, young musicians can improve their memory and recall, which can be beneficial for their academic studies and other activities.

10. Improved mental and emotional health and well-being
In addition to the physical benefits of regular practice, there are also mental and emotional benefits. Practicing can be a calming and meditative experience, which can help to reduce stress and promote overall mental and emotional health and well-being.

So, are we ready to support and encourage our young musicians with practice? It may be hard to begin any routine/habit, but once it is a part of your daily life (or even just the weekdays), it will hopefully become second nature. Pretty soon, you and your young musician will reap the benefits of regular practice! Good luck!

As I always say, happy practicing! 🎵🤩🎉