http://www.bulletproofmusician.com/how-many-hours-a-day-should-you-practice/
This article seems to be a really great reference for working to have quality practice sessions that won't waste our time, as time is something that we all desperately value. The article is also pretty organized, since it lays out steps and numbers off each example of poor practicing versus the examples of how to practice well with goals, strategies etc.
I really like this article! Especially now, when it seems like all we are just being pushed to practice more and more, it's important to remember that it isn't just about how long you practice. I particularly like the point they make about long practice being tedious and boring because they are absolutely right! Practice should be enjoyable. It should not make you want to quit playing - it should make you feel like you're moving forward and making progress.
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ReplyDeleteI LOVED the quote "Practice with your fingers and you need all day. Practice with your mind and you will do as much in 1 1/2 hours." I think mental preparation for your piece is invaluable. If you're not able to stay mentally engaged, I feel as though practicing is counterproductive and may be more discouraging and give room to developing bad habits out of laziness. Like Megan pointed out, as musicians, we are constantly pressured about spending MORE time in the practice room. Finding a balance between practicing enough and practicing efficiently is hard to do
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