Creating a good practice environment.

Whenever I have a student that seems to be stalling in their progress I ask the question “Where do you practice?”  The reason I ask is because I think the environment you create for yourself (or your child) to practice in is one of the most important factors in the success of that practice, and the progress made.  Setting up a quality practice space can seem like a big commitment of space in your home, but the payoff for the student can’t be overstated.  Here are a few tips for setting up a good space.

1. Have a quiet space, free of distractions.  This is the most important!  Quality practice takes a lot of focus and attention, and nothing is worse for that than sitting at the kitchen table while dinner is being cooked or, worse yet, on the couch while the TV is on.  Somewhere with a door that can be closed!  A corner of a bedroom is usually a good solution.  
2. Use a music stand!!!.  A close 2nd to number 1 above.  Having the music at the right height and distance from the player is a huge advantage!  Too many students prop their books up on pillows on their bed or on the kitchen table.  Also, time is tight!  Keep your music out on the stand, open to whatever you are working on.  If you have 10 minutes to practice you don’t want to waste 5 minutes getting your music out, which brings us to…..
3. Use a guitar stand.   Having a safe and secure stand for your instrument ensures you can have it out at all times, and spend more time practicing.  Not to mention, guitars are beautiful!  Cases are ugly.  
4. Keep all the essential tools close by.  For a lot of the same reasons stated above.  Don’t waste time searching for your tuner, metronome, footstool or whatever you need to get busy practicing.  Keep them out and on the stand/floor or wherever they belong.  Most of these things have to go to your lesson with you, so when you get home just take the time to unload ALL of those things from your case and set them up so you are ready for the next practice session (right after your lesson is also a great time to practice a little!)
5. Make yourself comfortable.  Have a comfy chair (make sure it’s a good height), some nice lighting, maybe a glass of water or cup of tea or whatever makes you happy.  Give yourself the fewest reasons possible to get up from that chair!  Make it as pleasant an experience as possible.  

That’s it!  If you can find the time and space to set yourself up well, practice will be something to look forward to, and progress will come faster and faster!