Where do we find the time?! Oftentimes I find that adult students have a hard time making or finding the time to practice. As a working adult myself, this can be a very difficult thing, particularly in a city like NYC. Maybe you work two jobs, have kids, want to go out to dinner, need to make time for friends, or want to stay current in the news, and it just seems impossible to balance this lifestyle with additional practice time. I hate to say it but you are right! It is definitely not easy to schedule in time to play an instrument. Even simply deciding to learn an instrument (or if you are already fluent in one instrument to pick up a new instrument) can be a daunting task. Like anything worthwhile it takes time, effort, patience, and persistence to master.
However, this is where I think most people have the wrong idea. Practicing was always a bit of a dreaded thing for me as a child. It was something that I would put off or try to cram in right before lessons. As I progressed in my studies, found a teacher that I really clicked with, and focused on my greater musical goals (which at the time was to become a music educator and pass my auditions for college) practicing started becoming something I enjoyed doing. Mind you, I was still a high school teenager at the time, with no cares in the world, and even without added stresses, practicing was only STARTING to become less tedious for me.
Now, I view practicing much differently. Instead of the dreaded hour I have to dedicate to technical exercises or tedious tone drills, it has actually become almost cathartic. The repetitive notes and critical listening of my playing makes me feel centered and takes my mind off of everyday stresses.
That being said my advice in terms of finding the time to practice are as follows:
1) Keep your instrument in view and close to the room/area you like to practice in
2) Don't feel like you have to practice technical drills or exercises meticulously everyday. You should not forget them if you want to progress quickly but the musical journey is different for everyone and sometimes that is not the best way for someone to practice on a particular day.
3) If you are not practicing drills or technical exercises, remember to effectively repeat or improvise. Really get to know your instrument!
4) Remember that even practicing for 15 mins a day will help you improve. Consistency is key!
5) If you CAN, practice for a short time in the morning, then again in the afternoon, and then again in the evening. Splitting up your practice time makes it feel less tedious and daunting.
6) Keeping a journal/notebook with your goals and updating your progress in it helps to motivate you to practice so that you achieve your goals.
7) On a day where it seems impossible to practice, at least try to listen to one recording featuring the instrument you play. If you are working on a particular solo or piece, I recommend listening to a recording/recordings of that piece by your favorite artist. Not only does this help to inspire you to pick up your instrument, but it can help you find your own voice and interpretation of the piece.
Happy practicing to all! Do NOT give up :)