Five Steps to Better Practicing, Part Five

5. Schedule a Performance

In my opinion, the best motivators of all are recitals, concerts, and other performance opportunities. When all other practicing rituals are in place and working well, schedule a performance for your students to keep them practicing and let them feel the pride and rewards of a job well done.

These showcase events do not have to be limited to the end-of-year spring recital and concert season. Christmas is an excellent occasion for such festivities as well. For children, contact a nursing home to schedule a musicale or invite parents to a "Studio Day" in your teaching studio where children may perform for them. This will provide a low-key environment that can help to build up to the higher pressures of the Spring Recital.