I recently read this very interesting article by Dr. Noa Kageyama about effective practicing. Here were the top three strategies:

1. The precise location and source of each error was identified accurately, rehearsed, and corrected.

2. Tempo of individual performance trials was varied systematically; logically understandable changes in tempo occurred between trials (e.g. slowed things down to get tricky sections correct; or speeded things up to test themselves, but not too much).

3. Target passages were repeated until the error was corrected and the passage was stabilized, as evidenced by the error’s absence in subsequent trials.

Click the link to check it out - and then try to apply these things to your practice time!

Nunsense!

This summer I had the opportunity to perform with the Orillia Stage Company. I had a blast playing Sister Mary Amnesia in Nunsense. It was a great group of women to work with. Thanks to all who made it out to see the show!

Canada Day with the Baytowne Big Band

Meaghan was pleased to entertain crowds at Barrie's Memorial Square, singing with the Baytowne Big Band as part of the Canada Day celebrations.

Why do I have to practice scales?

Wednesday, October 14, 2015 | Practice

Believe it or not, I don't make you learn scales as punishment. We learn scales for a few reasons. I recently read a good article about the importance of scales from the website howtopractice.com Clink the link to read the whole article or keep reading for some of the highlights.

10 Reasons Why Scales Are Important

Timing - having good internal time is a crucial skill when it comes to being a musician. Try practicing your scales with a metronome, start slow and gradually bump up the speed.
Intonation - voice students, this one is for you! You should be able to sing scales and exercises unaccompanied and still remain in tune.
Co-ordination - use scales to focus on all the aspects of practicing your instrument. This should include posture, breathing, fingering (piano), relaxation, etc.
Dexterity - scales will help prepare you for quick passages in repetoire.
Muscle Memory - your goal should be to play scales without having to think about it. Eventually you will know them so well, they will just flow.
Ears - if you can't hear what is wrong, you can't correct it.
Sight Reading - you will see scale patterns in many of your songs. Recognizing the scales will help you with sight reading.
Theory - music theory is much easier to understand if you know your scales.
Exams & Auditions - you will need to know scales and exercises for all music exams and school auditions
Building Blocks of all music - almost all music is based on scales.

There you have it - ten reasons! Go forth and practice your scales! I can't wait to hear the fruits of your practicing next week!

Welcome back!

Tuesday, September 8, 2015 | Practice

September is here! Let's get practicing!

I hope you have had a relaxing summer - I know I did. Now that September has arrived, it's time to get back to work! Lessons will be starting up again on September 14th and I'm looking forward to seeing you. Here is a great article about effective practicing that has some great information for parents and students. The article is by Dr. Noa Kageyama and here were the top three strategies:

1. The precise location and source of each error was identified accurately, rehearsed, and corrected.

2. Tempo of individual performance trials was varied systematically; logically understandable changes in tempo occurred between trials (e.g. slowed things down to get tricky sections correct; or speeded things up to test themselves, but not too much).

3. Target passages were repeated until the error was corrected and the passage was stabilized, as evidenced by the error’s absence in subsequent trials.

Click the link to check it out - and then try to apply these things to your practice time!

http://www.bulletproofmusician.com/8-things-top-practicers-do-differently/

Top 10 Skills Children Learn From The Arts

8 Things Top Practicers Do Differently