When you see this abbreviation in your child's book or notebook, it means more than simply to practice the song three times. I have instructed your child to practice the song, or more likely a section (or sections) of the song until he/she is able to play that section three times in a row without error! Most students stop practicing when they get it right once. But getting it right once isn't enough; it might have been just good luck!
When I ask students to do this for me in lessons, it is amazing how often they are able to play a passage once or twice without error, but then they make a mistake on the third time. What do I tell them to do? Start over! Keep playing that passage until the get it right 3 times in a row! Additionally, I recommend they practice this way daily. They need to be able to get it right 3 times in a row on Monday, and on Tuesday, etc.
This is a great practice technique for the child who seems to practice their songs very quickly at home. You might suggest: Why don't you try to play that song 3 times without a mistake? Can you do that?
If your child is really struggling with something, they should first try to play just the Right Hand alone 3 times without error, then the Left Hand alone 3 times without error. If they are able to get that accomplished, then they should try playing Hands Together again.
Let me know if you have questions and happy practicing!
I used to try to get something right 10 times in a row in order to make sure I had it in college. So I think 3 times in a row is a great way for beginner and intermediate students to start learning that practice technique.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips.
ReplyDeleteWondering how you feel about daily practice on an electric keyboard. We recently were given one and Philip seems to really like playing it.
I think practicing on the electric keyboard is great... especially if it is encouraging him to practice! With that said, hopefully he still practices on the PIANO as well!
ReplyDelete