It’s been a merry little while since I wrote a blog about what’s been happening at Grace Allwood Music rather than just my practice tips! So I thought it might well be overdue.

It’s been well over a year since we took delivery of the new Roland Piano, and its been getting a massive amount of use ever since. The student base continues to grow, with children and adults alike, and the progress that is being made in both technique and confidence is a joy to see. I am hopeful that I can bring these students together over the rest of the year for short performance opportunities.

The gigging calendar is also fairly full already! I’m off singing in new places with The Baker Street Belles, and we’re having a jolly good time doing it. While this will be affecting some lessons, I will always endeavour to make up any time I’ve missed where possible.

And finally the choirs are brimming with song and joy. With many concerts already lined up for the summer months, I can’t even begin to describe how much joy each of the choirs brings to my life. If you don’t want individual voice lessons why not come along to one of the three choirs I run on a weekly basis. You can find all the information here.

Whenever Spring arrives, I find myself looking for the next challenge, or the next change that I want to make in my personal and professional life. This year is no exception, and I will be making a big leap come September - more on that in the coming months. But the small changes can make all the difference. Today mine has to sit and do much of my social media and website admin in one block - to help me stay focussed on what I want to achieve today.

Making changes to your music practice habits can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned musician, adjusting your routine can have a significant impact on your progress and overall enjoyment of playing music. One key aspect to consider when making changes is setting specific and achievable goals. By identifying what you want to accomplish in your practice sessions, you can stay focused and motivated to improve.

I find looking for a positive, a puzzling and a proud moment can help: One positive thing in your practice - one thing that was hard or challenging - one thing you’re proud of.

Another important factor in changing your music practice habits is creating a consistent schedule. Establishing a regular practice routine not only helps build discipline but also allows you to track your progress more effectively. Whether you prefer to practice daily for short intervals or dedicate longer sessions a few times a week, finding a schedule that works for you is essential in developing good habits.

Coming soon will be my prizes for practice - keep your eyes on my social media and on your emails for how this is going to work!

Moreover, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore new techniques, genres, or pieces of music. Embracing variety in your practice can help prevent boredom and keep your learning experience fresh and exciting. Trying different exercises or incorporating music theory lessons into your routine can lead to a more well-rounded skillset as a musician.

Lastly, remember to be patient and kind to yourself throughout the process of changing your music practice habits. Progress takes time, and it's normal to encounter challenges along the way. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and stay committed to your musical journey. By being open to change and willing to put in the effort, you can develop more effective and fulfilling music practice habits that will ultimately enhance your musical abilities and enjoyment.

So while I make changes in the teaching studio, choir rehearsals and much more, how about you try to change up your practice?