6. Make it easy to practice
This one is simple, but often overlooked.
Have a comfortable space in which to practice. Make sure it’s warm (eg: pre- heated), has plenty of light, privacy, insulation, and is away from distractions.
Solve any issues as they arise, for example: if you get cold fingers, wear fingerless gloves. Or if you’re lacking alone time, try creating a ‘sound shield’ using sound-proofing materials, thick mattresses, or simply play your practice mp3s so loudly that people can’t hear you above the noise! If you don’t have a private space, why not practice in the car, shed, or out on the deck?
Organise your equipment and materials. Have your mp3 player, PA, amplifier and speakers permanently assembled and ready to use. Make sure your mp3s are in the correct keys/tempos. Have lesson books, pen and paper handy. Have your sheet music permanently open and sitting on the music stand. Keep the piano lid open, inviting you to play it (unless you have dust issues). Keep the guitar OUT of the case, on a guitar stand, so it’s easy to grab-and-go!
One of my students kept her guitar next to the couch, so she could practice during the ad breaks (hey, it worked for her!)
If the materials you need aren’t ready to go, then you will have to interrupt your practice session while you search for them.
Warning: once you wander off to check your school bag (car, under the bed, kitchen bench etc.) the chances of you actually returning to practice are greatly reduced. You’ll be at risk of being side-tracked by the latest Netflix series you were binge-watching, or the new computer game your brother is playing, of that load of washing you forgot to hang, or… [insert distraction here]