Practice Like a Pro
This ongoing class will cover strategies to help your young musician practice at their best. Better practice equals faster improvement and more fun in music. Plus, they will build community with other young musicians!
Dr. Brenda Buys
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(2)
What's included
4 live meetings
3 hrs 20 mins in-class hoursProjects
1-2 hours per week. For this course students will be asked to keep a practice journal and complete practicing projects each week.Letter Grade
Students will be able to receive a letter grade upon request based on the completion and quality of the practice journal project.Class Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Intermediate Level
Welcome to Practice Like a Pro! In this class we will work on developing the skill of practicing. It takes practice to practice well but this class will give you a head start. Each class will cover a new music practice strategy. Topics will include the importance of intentional practice, practice journals, ways to add expression, work out note/rhythm issues, and prepare for performance. Although each class will introduce a new practice strategy the class format will remain the same. Our class time will include a warm-up exercise, the introduction of the days practice strategy, time for implementing the new practice technique, and time for discussion. Learners will have a chance to apply the new concept and evaluate how they were able to use the concept during the class. Get ready to Practice Like a Pro!
Learning Goals
Students will improve their skills in practicing a musical instrument. They will learn strategies for better practice and problem solving.
Syllabus
4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Practice Journals
This class will focus on the importance of intentional practice and setting goals for our practice time. We will also discuss different areas of practice from fundamentals to expression. We will work on establishing individual routines to cover these areas. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Learning the Notes
In this lesson, we will be diving deep into the details of learning the notes of a piece. We will look at some of the most effective practice strategies for developing the technique to play challenging passages of music. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Giving Expression a Name
In this class, we will work on strategies for playing with expression. It is not enough to learn the notes, we must think and plan to play expressively. We must give expression a name. We will talk about planning dynamics, articulations, phrasing and other ways to add interest to the music we play. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Practicing for Performance
We all know that as soon as someone else is listening we feel like we play differently. In this class, we will talk about ways to prepare for high pressure situations. 50 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Pre-Requisites
A basic knowledge of the musical instrument the student is participating with is expected.
Supply List
- Musical Instrument the student plays (e.g. flute, clarinet, saxophone, violin, cello, piano, or others) - Music to work with during class -(optional) metronome/tuner
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined January, 2024
5.0
2reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Doctoral Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Arizona
I am a professional musician who performs with the Sierra Vista Symphony Orchestra and the chamber group, Luftbassoon. I holds a Doctorate degree in bassoon performance. Reviews
Live Group Course
$65
for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
50 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
4-7 learners per class
