Beginner instrument practice tools and tips

A challenge we face everyday meeting first-time players is passing on enough info and support when learning an instrument, so that it feels achievable and inspiring for the beginner. That first attempt learning an instrument too often ends in tatters, with said instrument under the bed or in the cupboard, and years later the conversation turns to regret for not having a proper crack at it. But persisted with properly, that first try could be a gateway to a lifelong enjoyment of playing and sharing an instrument instead of that one try for two weeks at learning an instrument and giving up forever tainted .... In those early days just find 10-15 minutes a day. Everyday. It's all about building up that regular contact and muscle memory on a new instrument. Steady practice should lead to steady results. Sitting down for a huge two-hour session one day followed by nothing for 10 days is a complete waste of time. It's got to be regular. Find a space without distraction so you can focus. If you are in front of the computer or have your smartphone in reach, you probably won't be fully focussed. Get comfortable and your posture right. It'll help the focus and prevent injuries. Using a music stand is always a better choice rather than sitting the sheet music on the bed or desk. Where the instrument requires, get a tuner and make the habit of tuning your instrument every time you pick it up. It'll have you in key and help develop the ear. Other household members will surely appreciate it too. Get a metronome. Some swear by them, some don't. We figure it pays to learn to use one. It'll tighten the chops and future jams with other musos will be smoother for the metronome experience you've had. Display your instrument. Find a stand or hanger appropriate to your environment to always have it handy for when the mood takes you. Having your instrument in a cupboard packed in it's case isn't very inspiring. We reckon we've heard somewhere that your house looks better with them out anyway ... We strongly recommend working with a music teacher, particularly in the early days. As convenient as YouTube or online courses are, it's difficult to ask immediate questions and on the flipside, get immediate feedback from a pro. Be picky; not all music teachers will be suited to your needs so if you feel you've not connected, find another professional teacher. Uncle Gaz or Aunt Polly probably aren't a great choice either. Find someone trained. We have some fantastic teachers we can recommend; visit us in store so we can learn a little more about you and point you in the right direction. Hopefully you can get some use out of these simple tips for beginner instrument players - they have certainly helped us on our musical journeys. We'd love to have these conversations in store, so come pull up a chair and pick our brains!