Stop Sloppy Practice

We need to practice with intention, focus, and precision to maximize the effectiveness of our practice sessions. Here are some key points to consider if, like me, you want to eliminate sloppy practice habits.

1. Pay attention to detail. Sloppy practice often results from overlooking small details such as fingerings, articulations, dynamics, and rhythm. Pay close attention to these elements and strive for accuracy in every aspect of your playing.

2. Slow It Down. Practicing slowly allows you to focus on each note and technical aspect of the music. By starting at a comfortable tempo and gradually increasing speed as you improve, you can build muscle memory and ensure precision in your playing.

3. Isolate challenging passages. Identify the sections of music that are particularly difficult or prone to sloppiness. Practice these passages separately, breaking them down into smaller segments if necessary, and work on them until they are polished and fluent.

4. Use a metronome. Practicing with a metronome can help you maintain a steady tempo and improve your sense of rhythm. Start at a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the passage.

5. Focus on quality over quantity. It's better to practice a small section of music with precision and attention to detail than to rush through the entire piece without addressing specific issues. Quality practice leads to better results than simply logging hours of unfocused playing.

I know I must sound like a broken record, but I can’t help repeating this advice over and over, month after month. By making a conscious effort to stop sloppy practice habits, you can elevate the quality of your playing, enhance your musical performance, and ultimately reach your full potential as a musician.

Happy dulcimering,
Linda