We all know that consistent practice is required for musicians to maintain skills over the summer. However, getting band kids to practice over the summer can be a challenge. Here are some tools you can hand out before the end of the year to motivate students and encourage summer practice.
This new series was created specifically to encourage practice! It includes a huge number of songs students know already (and a few they should know!). Having song sheets that are full of songs students recognize can be a huge boost to their desire to practice. These sets specifically include a variety of songs, so you can hand it out to an entire band program and all students can find something to play. It also allows them to challenge themselves with harder lines throughout the summer. Since these are well known melodies, they can easily be found on YouTube, so kids can learn songs ‘above their level’ by being familiar with the tune.
BINGO Practice Logs (with unique assignments!)
These are editable challenges that can provide all kids of variety to the type of practice. For example: Practice your chromatic scale for 10 minutes. Play your favorite 3 lines in the book with a metronome. Stand on your head and count this rhythm.
These include a “print & go” version as well as an editable version if you’d like to tailor the challenges to specific classes. Students can work to get “BINGO” or “Blackout”!
Another spin on practice tracking! Each sheet has a unique practice design such as: The Practice Pyramid, Metronome Measures Performance Self-Evaluation & Tuning Time. These are a fun way to change things up and encourage students to focus on different aspects of practice.
Consider a summer challenge on technique. Students can perform scales, clarke studies, thirds or chromatic scales when they return in August for a special recognition or prize. There are 2 levels of these technique packs – one for middle school, one for advanced middle school or high school.Something for everyone to keep their fingers moving all summer.
Want some rewards to help recognize and reward all this summer practice? Check out these Reward Coupons that you can print and use year after year. Printable and editable coupons included with many unique ideas for fun rewards. Great way to recognize practice when students return in the fall!
In addition to encouraging independent home practice, consider helping students enroll in private lessons and/or summer band camps.
Check out these 2 articles: 7 Benefits of Private Lessons. Summer Band Camps
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