Fifth Grade Band Program

Mrs. Vickers and Mr. Cookus band teachers

Practice Strategies

For Students

  • Time your practice with a timer. 5 to 10 minutes is a great starting point

  • Refer to the band syllabus for what to practice

  • Use lots of repetition. Repeating helps build muscle memory

  • Practice slow and use a metronome to keep a steady beat

  • Focus on one thing at a time

  • Have a distraction free practice space

  • Set a goal for your practice session

  • Make practicing a daily routine at the same time every day

  • Be patient and trust the process

  • Remember the goal is to make progress, not be perfect

For Parents/Guardians

  • Be positive with your comments

  • Listen to students play and point out improvements

  • Help them get set up but let them be independent

  • Encourage them to practice daily with a scheduled time each day

  • Reward their improvement

  • Remind them to sign on prepared with all materials and instrument ready

  • Get ready for in person band class the night before

  • Ask them to give a concert for family

  • Check that they are following the Band syllabus

  • Be patient and trust the process

  • Remind them that the goal is to make progress, not to be perfect