Back to the Groove: Tips to Rekindle Your Students's Musical Passion as School Resumes

As class comes back in session, it's time to get those melodious tunes back into your student’s homes, or into your own. Whether your kids are seasoned musicians or budding instrumentalists, the transition from the carefree days of summer to the rhythm of the school year can be a bit tricky.

Whether you’re a music teacher, a parent, or a musician yourself, as big-time supporters of the student musician, we wanted to share some back to school tips for getting back in the swing of music practice. Get ready to ignite your kid's musical spark as they settle into the new school routine and, who knows, maybe even pick up a new instrument or revive a long-forgotten love!

Create a Musical Haven at Home

The first step to getting your kids (or yourself) back into music mode is to cultivate an environment that encourages some music time. Help your students come up with ideas for a designated practice area in their home, dorm room, or even at school. If it’s their own space, maybe help them figure out how to always have a space set up to practice with their instruments, music stands, and perhaps even some inspirational posters or sheet music. Inspire them to come up with ways to make it inviting, cozy, and a place they look forward to spending time in. It's all about creating a space where music feels like second nature.

Explore New Instruments

With school back in session, it's a golden opportunity to help your students explore new musical horizons. Encourage them to try out a different instrument they've been curious about. Maybe it's the electric guitar, the saxophone, or the keyboard. Urge them to go instrument window shopping, watch videos together, and let them discover the one that resonates with their soul. Who knows, this might just be the year they find their true musical love!

Set Exciting Musical Goals

Everybody knows goals help us succeed, especially when we’re just getting back in the swing of things. Sit down with your student and chart out their musical aspirations for the school year. It could be anything from nailing a complex piece, performing at a school event, or simply improving their sight-reading skills. It can also include things like breath training or lung exercises, with items like the Original Breath Builder. This might be a great way to bring in something new that’s easy to track and see progress with, but still deeply improves their playing ability.

Having well-defined goals not only motivates them but also keeps them focused and excited about their musical journey. Give them ways to track their goals, like posters or phone wallpapers that’ll support them in actually achieving their musical goals.

Mix Practice with Playtime

We all know that practice makes perfect, but it doesn't have to be mundane! Blend practice sessions with elements of fun and creativity. Maybe it’s encouraging them to have a family music night, or music nights with their dorm hall or roommates, or getting them to try new pieces or see what different melodies sound like. You can challenge them to compose something on their own, see who can play certain pieces the fastest or longest by heart - whatever games or challenges would really bring some fun into practicing. By infusing playfulness into practice, you'll keep the enthusiasm alive and the boredom at bay.

Things like the Original Breath Builder might be perfect for this- as you encourage your students to try something different that really feels like a game. It’ll train their breath, improve their skills, and yet still feel like a challenge of who can keep the ball up the longest or who can get it up the highest.

Revive Their Old Flames with Patience and Support

For those kids who used to be big into music but took a hiatus, it's never too late to pick up where they left off. However, this might require a sprinkle of patience and a lot of encouragement. Start slow, let them rediscover the joy of their chosen instrument, and remind them that you're there to support their musical journey, no matter where it takes them.

Embrace the Digital Music Revolution

We're living in a digital age, and technology can be a wonderful ally in nurturing your student's musical passion. There are numerous apps, online tutorials, and interactive platforms that make learning and practicing music more engaging than ever. From virtual piano lessons to interactive music theory games, there's a whole world of digital resources waiting to be explored. Feel free to explore these yourself and don’t be afraid to give ideas to your students!

As school gears up for another exciting year, your teaching can be a hub of musical inspiration and creativity. By creating an inviting musical space, encouraging instrument exploration, setting achievable goals, infusing playfulness into practices, connecting with fellow music enthusiasts, and embracing technology, you're not only nurturing your students' musical talents but also fostering a lifelong love of music that goes beyond the school year.

We here at Original Breath Builder wish you the best start to your school year!