General Guide - read below for explanation
- Preschool-Early Elementary - 10 minutes, twice a day
- Beginner/Upper Elementary - 15-30 minutes a day
- Intermediate/Middle School - 30-45 minutes a day
- Advanced/High School - 45+ minutes a day
School-Age Students
Preschool and early elementary students typically view practice as playtime. Encouraging children to "go practice" alone at this age is an unreasonable expectation. Besides, two people make a better playtime! How early should students start playing (See bottom of FAQ)? They should show interest in their instrument, be able to focus on the instrument during lessons and at-home practice. You need to know your child and understand the parental requirement involved with young students. A reasonable expectation is 5-10 minutes of practice, two times a day.
Upper elementary and middle school students are typically offered band and string classes in their schools. 4th-8th grade students are more independent and will require less parent involvement.
Parents should be involved in:
- Establishing and maintaining daily practice routines (same as homework)
- Maintaining the student's music schedule including school practice days, lesson days, and concerts
- Making sure the student has necessary supplies for school, lessons, and concerts
- Giving positive support and encouragement at their wonderful achievement!
It is reasonable to expect 15-30 minutes of daily practice from 4th-6th grade students. Middle school students should attain 30-45 minutes of daily practice.
High school students can be expected to practice 45-60 minutes of daily practice. Music is challenging, expectations are higher, and students are capable of thorough, independent work.
Adult Students
Adult students can use the above times as a guide. However, total time is based upon individual skill level, time available for practice, and interests. I offer these situations as actual examples of adult students.
Student A travels frequently for work, but wished to continue their study of violin. We schedule lessons when Student A is in town, typically 1-2 lesson per month. Lessons are 30 minutes in length.
Student B plays with a local band. Student B wanted to learn American Fiddle to expand their band's repertoire. Student B takes weekly 45 minute lessons, chooses specific music to learn, and practices 30-60 minutes a day.
Student C chose to perform a violin concerto. Student C chose the concerto and had weekly lessons for one year prior to the performance. Lessons were 60 minutes long. Following the performance, Student C retired from playing violin.
Student A travels frequently for work, but wished to continue their study of violin. We schedule lessons when Student A is in town, typically 1-2 lesson per month. Lessons are 30 minutes in length.
Student B plays with a local band. Student B wanted to learn American Fiddle to expand their band's repertoire. Student B takes weekly 45 minute lessons, chooses specific music to learn, and practices 30-60 minutes a day.
Student C chose to perform a violin concerto. Student C chose the concerto and had weekly lessons for one year prior to the performance. Lessons were 60 minutes long. Following the performance, Student C retired from playing violin.
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