Back to the Keys: Getting Ready for Piano Lessons

Getting Back Into Practice

I wanted to give you some simple tips so you can ease back into practice before lessons begin.
Don’t get frustrated if you feel a little rusty. That is completely normal. Within about a week of consistent, short practice you’ll start feeling better and more comfortable at the piano again. Remember: a little bit every day is far better than trying to cram everything into one long session.

Start Slow and Build the Habit

Start slow while you’re getting back into it. If you were practicing 30 minutes before our last studio recital, begin with half of that, or even just 10 minutes. Build up gradually. You can also break practice into shorter sessions (one in the morning and one before dinner, for example).

Pick a Specific Practice Time

Choosing a set practice time is one of the most helpful things you can do. When that time comes, you already know it is time to practice piano. If you only say “I’ll practice when I have some free time,” you will almost never practice. Schedule it and it will happen.

Warm Up Your Body

Right before you start practicing, take a couple of minutes to prepare your body. We are athletes too, athletes of music-making! Do some light stretching for your whole body. Here is a clear, simple set of stretches designed for pianists: Stretches for Pianists to Keep Your Playing Loose

​Review Old Music

Start with some old repertoire from your books or favorite recital pieces you really liked. You’ll rarely feel like practicing, but once you sit down and get going you’ll usually find your groove. Practicing needs to become a habit, the more you do it, the less friction there is. Play those older pieces and notice how far you’ve come since you started. At the same time, keep moving forward toward where you left off before summer break.

​A Note for Parents of Younger Students

Sometimes just sitting nearby while your child practices makes a big difference. Your quiet presence and a few words of encouragement (“I love hearing you play” or “You’re working hard, nice job”) can help them feel more comfortable and motivated. You don’t need to correct every note or act as a second teacher. Simply being there and cheering the effort often helps more than anything else.

Looking Ahead

Fall is a great time to return to the piano. A few quiet minutes each day and a little patience with the first rusty notes are usually all it takes. The instrument is always ready, and the music grows in those small, steady moments.
At Teclado Music Institute we look forward to another season of discovery and beautiful playing.

Helpful Reading for Parents

• Hoffman Academy – How to Get Back Into Piano after a Break Practical tips on starting slow, rebuilding the daily habit, and revisiting easy pieces.
• Positive Practice Tip #27 – Welcome the challenges of getting back after the summer break Great advice on realistic expectations, patience, and encouraging instead of pushing.
• Moore Piano – Back-to-School Piano Practice Tips Simple ways to ease back into practice without frustration.