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Reshmi Patel • August 28, 2020

Accountability Hacks When Learning to Play a Musical Instrument

A common phrase we tend to use throughout our content and lessons is ‘musical journey’.
 
This is when we are continually improving ourselves whilst embracing the ups and downs in learning to play a musical instrument. 

In this article, we share some of our most popular accountability systems which have been set up by an array of successful musicians and teachers worldwide.

1. Personal

When we begin to learn a musical instrument, it is a personal commitment.


Some students tend to find writing on sticky notes or their lesson materials to monitor their own progress during their practice sessions. The reason they find this useful is because they can then make sense of their musical journey in their own words.


A top tip for adult musicians would be finding their purpose behind their desire to learn music. Here are some prompt questions which may help you to discover this:



A)     Why do I wish to learn music?

B)     Why is (your answer in part A) important to you?


2. Community

Another form of accountability is speaking to like-minded musicians within your current social circles.



If you do not have anyone musical within your network, you may be able to join in with concerts at your local community centre, church, temple or school.



The best-selling book called: ‘Atomic Habits’ – which is based around how to build and break habits wrote:



‘One of the most effective things you can do to build better habits is to join a desired culture where your desired behaviour is the normal behaviour. New habits seem achievable when you see others doing them.’ – James Clear



3. Teacher

The final layer which will amplify your musical journey is working with a teacher.

The reason this will fast-track your learning is because:



-         They have a proven track record in helping people with similar goals to you, which means they can quickly help you to avoid or overcome obstacles.

-         They’ve been through a very similar journey to you themselves.

-         They will hold you accountable to taking action and the necessary steps to help you make progress.


Remember that when you are trying out these systems to write them out and look at them little and often but also be patient with yourself. If you wish to know more about these hacks and resources, feel free to take a look around our website or connect with us directly.

How to Turn Piano Practice into Productive yet Playful Practice

By Reshmi Patel • February 3, 2025
Piano practice doesn’t have to feel like a chore! Adding an element of play can make it an enjoyable part of your day. 1. Turn practice into a game – use a timer and see how many times you can play a section correctly in five minutes, or create a “practice bingo” card with tasks like “play softly,” “practice scales backward,” or “play standing up.” Reward progress – aim to reward students with small treats or privileges to keep motivation high. 2. Add friendly competition to make practice more exciting. If you have siblings or friends who play, hold mini-recitals or compete to memorize a short piece the fastest. 3. Challenge yourself with personal goals – an example of this could be learning a new song in a week or improvising a melody over a chord progression. 4. Record your sessions and watch your progress – it’s inspiring to see how far you’ve come! 5. Use technology to your advantage – apps like Simply Piano or Flowkey offer interactive, gamified lessons, while YouTube tutorials provide endless inspiration. 6. Play songs you genuinely enjoy – mix favourite pop songs, movie themes, or video game music into your routine alongside classical exercises. A balance of fun and structure keeps practice fresh and exciting—because music should always be enjoyable! Get in touch to find out more information here: www.keysoundsuk.com/contact

What to Consider When Changing Your Piano Teacher

By Reshmi Patel • January 20, 2025
How Do I Know When to Change Piano Teacher? Choosing the right piano teacher can profoundly impact a child’s musical journey, but sometimes, the best path forward involves change. Before considering a switch, it’s important to recognize that every teacher brings unique strengths, and not every bump in the road signals the need for a new instructor. Challenges like a tough piece or frustration over progress are natural parts of learning. However, if a student feels consistently unmotivated or a teacher’s methods clash with their learning style, it might be time to evaluate the situation. Signs that it could be time for a change include stagnation in progress: 1. A lack of connection between teacher and student 2. A shift in the student’s goals that the current teacher isn’t equipped to support - for instance, a student focusing on advanced classical repertoire might need a specialist, while a budding songwriter may thrive with someone versed in improvisation or composition. 3. Logistical issues like scheduling or location are creating unnecessary stress - open communication with the teacher can often address these concerns, but sometimes, switching is the best option to reignite a student’s passion for playing. Switching teachers is not a failure; it’s a thoughtful decision to prioritize what’s best for the student’s growth. Musical journeys are deeply personal, and the teacher-student relationship plays a pivotal role in fostering confidence and creativity. If a switch is necessary, approach it with kindness and gratitude for the teacher’s contributions so far.  Remember, finding the right teacher is about aligning with the student’s evolving needs, and making that change can be a powerful step toward nurturing a lifelong love for music. Get in touch to find out more information here: www.keysoundsuk.com/contact

Start the New Year on a High Note with Our Piano Lessons

By Reshmi Patel • January 6, 2025
“What new skill could my child learn this year that will build their confidence, improve focus, and bring them joy?” As a parent, finding activities that help your child grow while keeping them engaged can feel like a challenge. Piano lessons at Key Sounds UK are the perfect way to start the New Year with purpose, creativity, and fun. Whether your child is curious about music or looking for a meaningful way to spend their time, learning piano is a gift that will benefit them for years to come. Here’s why the New Year is the ideal time to begin. 1. A Fresh Start for a Fresh Year The start of the year is a time for setting goals and embracing new opportunities. Piano lessons provide the structure to develop a valuable skill, and with our personalized approach, your child will see progress and feel proud of their achievements. 2. Build Confidence and Resilience Piano lessons teach more than music—they help children build self-esteem and resilience. Every piece learned, every challenge overcome, and every performance given boost confidence. At Key Sounds UK, we celebrate every milestone, making learning a positive and empowering experience. 3. Strengthen Focus and Discipline Learning piano requires concentration, practice, and discipline—all essential skills for academic success and personal growth. Our lessons are designed to help students stay engaged, motivated, and eager to improve, making piano a fun way to enhance their focus and determination. 4. Discover the Joy of Music Music brings joy to daily life. From playing favourite songs to creating original pieces, piano lessons spark creativity and offer a healthy outlet for emotions. The sense of accomplishment your child feels after playing their first melody will inspire them to keep going. 5. Join a Supportive Community At Key Sounds UK, your child isn’t just taking lessons—they’re joining a community of passionate teachers, supportive peers, and encouraging families. We believe in building connections and fostering friendships that make the learning process even more enjoyable.  Get in touch to find out more information here: www.keysoundsuk.com/contact
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