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practice like a pro!

1. READ LESSON NOTES
Look at your notebook to make sure you are practicing all of the correct songs, and to see any other notes or comments.

 

2. PRACTICE SLOWLY
Practicing quickly is NOT practicing! Start at a slow enough tempo that you can play the entire section without any mistakes.

 

3. BREAK IT UP INTO SMALL SECTIONS
Instead of trying to play the whole song at once, break it up into smaller sections (4-8 measures). Hands separately is also an effective practicing tool. Focus on a small section until you have mastered it, then move onto the next small section. Gradually start to string them together until you have the whole song. 

 

4. PRACTICE SLOWLY

Even within the smaller sections, don't rush! Find a tempo that is comfortable for the hardest sections, and stick with that slower tempo for the whole song.

 

5. PRACTICE WITH A METRONOME

A metronome can help you with two things: to determine a comfortable tempo for the whole song (see 4), and to keep a steady tempo for the whole song. A metronome can also help you gradually work a piece up to the final performance tempo. 

 

6. PRACTICE SLOWLY

In case you missed 2 and 4, PRACTICE SLOWLY!

 

7. COUNT OUT LOUD

For any challenging rhythm sections or any parts you are struggling with, counting out loud is the best method to fix those spots. Write in any counts in the music as well.

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8. PRACTICE SLOWLY

If you don't take anything else away from these tips, just remember to practice slowly!

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