Efficient Practicing Template

By Francesca Leo Last updated Jul 22, 2022

Efficient Practicing Strategies:
Create a repertoire list with deadlines
Assess repertoire difficulty and prioritize newest/most difficult pieces
Create a detailed daily practice schedule based on your time limit and your goals (see
template below)
Slow practice on small, difficult sections will always prove to be more beneficial than
running through sections you already feel comfortable playing

Daily Check-Ins:

Am I hydrated and have I eaten enough/well?
Do I feel well-rested?
Do I feel anxious, stressed or overwhelmed? If the answer is yes, write down the
reasons.
If I am in pain, have I seen a doctor and talked to my teacher?
Am I being kind to myself?
Additional Reminders:
- Repeat this hour-long cycle each time you practice, being sure to include physical warm-
  ups each time you re-enter the practice room throughout the day
- Always have a detailed plan of exactly what you wish to accomplish for efficiency
- Always record yourself and listen back. This helps you become your own best teacher
  and also gives you a physical break while you are listening
- This template can be altered to fit your needs, but be sure to include a 5-minute break
  every 15-20 minutes of practice time
- Don’t underestimate the power of mental practicing, score study and listening to
  recordings, especially if you are injured
- Stay positive, even if you are having a bad day. Trust your process and be kind to
  yourself!

Date:

Time:

Goals:

Efficient Practicing Template by @playingwithoutpain

Repertoire List in Priority Order:

Physical Warm-Up (5 Minutes): Slow arm circles, work with exercise bands, shoulder/arm/neck stretches, running in place, etc.

Musical Warm-Up (10 Minutes):

– 5 Minute Break –
Detailed Repertoire Practice (15 Minutes):

– 5 Minute Break –
Additional Detailed Repertoire Practice (15 Minutes):

Under Tempo Run-Through (5 Minutes)

#practicing