Consistency is the key to mastering the Piano

Many have inquired about what it requires to enhance proficiency in piano playing, whether it concerns sight-reading, achieving a smoother or faster execution, or improving timing. Undoubtedly, the key lies in consistent and diligent practice.

In my youth, I recall encountering this proverb:

"To play like an angel, one must practice like a devil."

Come to think of it now, to a certain extent, it is so true.

My students who are disciplined and allocate a specific amount of time weekly for their practices usually progress smoothly with little to no difficulty. For a more organized and systematic approach, consider using my Piano Practice Tracker.

Ideally, plan a suitable and fixed time for practice sessions, such as three times a week after dinner. I suggest practicing three times for 20-25 minutes each, rather than a single one-hour session. Repetition and consistency are more beneficial. Moreover, for younger children, an hour may be too exhausting. A lack of focus can lead to an inability to concentrate or, worse, practicing incorrectly.

However, if a child is overwhelmed with school duties, particularly in Singapore's competitive educational landscape, finding time for practice can be tough. Yet, with seven days in a week and 24 hours in a day, allocating 20 minutes twice a week for practice seems feasible with a few adjustments. Including the lesson day, this ensures the student engages with the piano at least three times a week. It simply requires dedication and the ability to prioritize tasks to establish a structured routine.

Some parents might choose to suspend or even cancel piano lessons during major examinations such as the PSLE (Primary School Leaving Examination), 'O' Levels, or 'A' Levels, believing that this will allow their child more time to concentrate on studying. However, it is clear that halting lessons can affect the student's musical progress. The longer the break, the more challenging it may be to return to the previous level of proficiency once lessons are resumed.

Rather than discontinuing lessons, parents' ought to consider the advantages of piano lessons for enhancing academic achievement.

For example,

- Playing the piano can be a form of relaxation and help relieve stress, anxiety, and tension common during examination time. It will help to unwind and lessen the pressures of studying all the time and prevent burnout. Regular piano lessons can be enjoyable and contribute to overall well-being and mental health. When the child is more refreshed, their outlook on things, be it academic, communication with parents/friends can be more positive too.

- Piano playing involves various cognitive processes, namely reading the music score, hand-eye coordination, or memorizing the piano pieces. These activities stimulate the brain and enhance cognitive abilities like concentration, attention to detail, and problem-solving. As piano playing also requires memorizing skills, this can be particularly helpful when studying and memorizing academic material, such as vocabulary, formulas, historical facts, etc. The mental exercise of memorizing and recalling specific musical structures, patterns, and phrases can strengthen overall memory skills.

- Frequent piano practice also improves fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, agility, and response. These skills will eventually aid activities like typing, handwriting and doing science experiments.

- Balancing different commitments such as piano lessons and academics can also cultivate good time management and discipline, teaching the value of setting goals and sticking to a practice schedule. In the long term, these are good traits to acquire. These qualities can foster a strong work ethic and the ability to overcome challenges.

For a student who is excelling at piano or has a deep passion for music, it is recommended for parents to work with the teacher to tailor the intensity and frequency of lessons to fit the child's schedule, particularly during busy times. This strategy ensures a balanced workload while allowing the student to benefit from continuous musical education. During school exam periods, I utilize a modified syllabus that enables students to persist in their learning and enjoy their lessons without becoming overwhelmed.

Even modest progress during exam periods is preferable to none at all. Regular piano practice and lessons lay the groundwork for enduring musical development and success, ensuring a steady improvement in your piano abilities over time.