10 Practice Techniques To Build Musical Greatness in 2024
Set Clear Goals: Define specific, achievable goals for each practice session, such as mastering a particular chord progression or improving speed on a scale.
Warm-Up Routine: Start with a warm-up routine to loosen your fingers and prepare for more intense practice. This can include exercises like finger stretches, chromatic scales, or simple chord changes.
Focus on Fundamentals: Dedicate time to mastering the foundational skills of guitar playing, such as proper hand positioning, fretboard knowledge, and picking techniques. I still do this, and always will.
Practice Techniques Slowly: My students know, I CANNOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH! Break down challenging passages or techniques and practice them SLOWLY at first, gradually increasing speed as you gain proficiency. Fall in love with slow motion baby!
Practice counting: Using a metronome is great to build a sense of rhythm and timing, but something else I highly recommend is to play to your own internal count of the they rhythm while you play. On top of your rhythm, this also builds your ability to multi-task which is what great musical performances are all about.
Work on Repertoire: You are what you eat in music. Practice the artists you love, and find out what posters were on their wall as kids and then practice that! I was really into Pearl Jam and Mike McCready as a kid, and his biggest influences were Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan. What were those guys into?
Record Yourself: Listening to yourself is key! Music can be a little hypnotic and deceiving at times when you are in the pocket, so listening back later with an honest yet constructive ear is crucial. I use the fancy Ableton Live 10, but GarageBand or HookPad are other options, or just the audio recorder on your phone would suffice at first.
Consistency is Key: Practice regularly, even if it's just for 5 minutes a day. Consistent practice over time yields better results than occasional intensive sessions. Don't let your instrument collect dust! It wants to be played a little each day, or it will die inside.
Take Breaks: Give yourself regular breaks during practice sessions to prevent fatigue and maintain focus. Short, frequent breaks can help prevent burnout and keep you motivated. We all experience moments of not loving our sound, which is why consistency and breaks are absolutely necessary. Especially when practicing my vocals, this is key. 😉
Stay Patient and Persistent: Music is worth the squeeze. Just ask musician if it came easily to them and I bet you'll get an earful. After their done telling you about all the times they wanted to give the up, they'll tell you how rewarding it is and how much it adds to their life. If everyone who tried was amazing to listen to, would it be rewarding at all? Keep honing your craft!
By incorporating these practice techniques into your overall practice routine, you will be well on your way to musical greatness no matter what instrument! Shine On You Crazy Diamonds!
Considering some help?
Are you considering learning a new instrument or improving your skills on the guitar, piano, or vocal? If so, you might want to consider taking virtual private music lessons with Virtual Music Coach. Here are some benefits to keep in mind:
Convenience: Virtual private music lessons offer the convenience of learning from the comfort of your own home. No need to spend time commuting to a music school or studio.
Flexible scheduling: With virtual private music lessons, you can easily schedule lessons around your busy schedule. Whether you're a student, a working professional, or a busy parent, you can find a time that works for you.
Personalized instruction: With virtual private music lessons, you get one-on-one attention from a coach with over 25 years experience, on multiple instruments. Best of all, I won't just stare at you until you magically "get it", I'll help guide you along the path.
Growth: Working with a coach means accountability. I will be holding you accountable each week to deepening your musical understanding, improving your technique, remembering more, and understanding more completely.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, virtual private music lessons with Virtual Music Coach can help you achieve your musical goals. So why wait?
Sign up for virtual guitar, piano or vocal lessons today and start your musical journey from the comfort of your own home.
Contact me today to schedule your first free trial lesson!