So here we are, in a new calendar year and a new academic semester. As always things get off to a crazy start at the beginning of a semester. Getting student schedules settled to fit in all of the lessons, rehearsals etc. Now we can finally settle into the groove, and I am sure most of you are asking yourself right now "is there a point to this?" Well, there is: as we get all of the classes, lessons etc. sorted out you know one things students usually don't think about - "when am I going to practice?"

Students lives are scheduled to the minute with classes, rehearsals, lessons, clubs etc. but practice time is completely arbitrary. Whenever you can make it into the room go for it. To combat this I have started having my students schedule their practice time like a class. We sit down with their schedule and start by putting in all of their classes, rehearsals and lessons. Then we schedule their meals (yes, the recommended 3 thank you!) and any clubs they might have. Then we look at the TON of open spaces still available (and trust there are ALWAYS a ton) and start scheduling their practice time.

Usually when we are done with that they begin to see that if they really use their "free" time during the day they can be done by 7:00 at night! That leaves time for homework AND getting to bed at a decent hour so they make those 8:00 AM classes.