It is time to start thinking about summer lessons, believe it or not! As the parents know, I have contacted all about scheduling summer lessons. However, some students and/or parents may wonder why summer lessons are so important. This is what I will focus on today as we get ready to get to summer.
When I took piano lessons for 13 years, I also continued into the summer. It was a part of my daily/weekly schedule. But why is it so important?
I know from experience, if you take time off from anything, whether it be practicing, writing, exercising, etc, you lose it! I have seen students take the summer off and come back in the fall, then we have to go backwards to review the information the student had lost. The student has put so much time and effort into their instrument, whether it be piano and/or singing. Getting into the rhythm (no pun intended!) and having it a part of his/her schedule will make a big difference! Music is a language, and without work, it is lost.
Since the student is not in school during the summer, we (the student and I) are able to focus more on specific music, trouble spots, flash cards, and/or theory. Maybe the student can tackle a more difficult piece that he/she has been wanting to do. Since there is more time during the summer, we can do that. I also have a few voice students who take advantage of the summer to pick out his/her solo piece for contest time. As many of my students will agree, the summer is a much more relaxed time, since the student does not have to focus on "getting home to finish homework" or "having to study for a big test". It is fun to work and focus on the joy of music!
I do understand that there are only a handful who cannot continue with lessons during the summer for other reasons. For those who are not, please encourage your student to continue to play throughout the summer. My recommendation is at least 3 times a week.
As I have seen when teaching in the school system, as well as in my studio, students need structure. Having the entire summer "off" and being able to do anything isn't always the best. Having a few structured activities in the students' schedule encourages the students' brains to continue to work.
Summer will be here before we know it! I am so looking forward to all the progress that will continue through the summer. Parents, I will be in touch with you within the next few weeks to confirm the summer time for your student. It will be a great summer and hopefully the weather will be just the same!
Bravo to another great year of piano and voice lessons!
