Key Sounds UK • October 21, 2018

PRODUCTIVE PRACTICE

How much does practice really matter?

Through past experiences and networking with dozens of highly experienced musicians from composers to conductors to teachers to instrumental musicians, we concluded that in an average week it takes 80% practice time and 20% lesson time.

How can we get the most out of ‘practising’ then?

One could sit down at their instrument every day for 60 minutes and be completely UNPRODUCTIVE. This could mean wasting time deciding what they are going to practice, what the aims and objectives of their practice session will be or just doing anything but progressing in the time allocated to them.

Trying to wing a practice session is a recipe for disaster. I’ve experienced this before and seen it happen far too many times!

Whether you are practising theories or a piece of music and prior to this session you decide what you are going to focus on and how much time or which days you will allocate to this then you will find your practice session much more useful and PRODUCTIVE as you won’t be wasting planning time.

In terms of the quantity of practice one should be doing, if you have a look at the second image on the right by ‘Musicnotes’ this clearly illustrates the difference the quantity of practice can make over the course of a decade or so.

The key here is to HAVE A PLAN and break this down into manageable and actionable chunks.

Studies show that the most successful musicians cultivate the following practice habits:

  1. Keep their piano in a location where they will see it regularly (e.g. their hallway or bedroom)
  2. Operate on a schedule
  3. Break goals into manageable chunks
  4. Warm up
  5. Record themselves

Sometimes it can be difficult to rectify the small mistakes in your playing, so recording yourself and listening back to this can provide you with a clearer understanding as to what does and doesn’t need improving. The top tip we always give is to practice what you don’t know, as opposed to what you do know. This in itself is a mental challenge just as much as it is a physical one, but it’s what really makes a piece or element of music sound complete as well as teach the musician what they are really capable of.

How can we make the most out of our lessons then?

Something we don’t usually realise until later on down the line is that lessons can be more productive if they are seen as check-ins, providing the student has practised effectively prior to that lesson. This means that any struggles or doubts one is having they should use in this 20% of their time to ask for help and learn how to find a solution to their problem(s).

The toughest part is of course the sitting down and getting to work, but we encourage to find a way that works for you. Of course, there will be days where you don’t want to get up but it is on these days that will separate those who work as and when they please compared to those who go that extra mile.

For more tips and tricks follow us on Instagram: @keysoundsuk or Facebook: www.facebook.com/keysoundsuk

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How Developmental Stages Shape Piano Progress

By Reshmi Patel • November 20, 2025
Children don’t just grow physically - their attention span, emotional awareness, and confidence evolve too. As they move through different ages and stages, their piano learning naturally shifts. Understanding these changes helps you support their musical journey in a way that feels positive and achievable for everyone. Developmental Stages Young children (5-7 years) They learn through play, repetition, and imagination. Short bursts of focus are completely normal, and their progress often shows up in tiny steps that suddenly click all at once. Older children (8-11 years) They begin to take pride in independence and want to understand why things work. They can handle longer pieces and more complex rhythms. Pre-teens & teens This stage can be full of emotions, self-criticism, and identity-building. Music can become an expressive outlet and sometimes a place where perfectionism shows up. How you can help ● Adjust practice expectations as your child matures. ● Celebrate growth over speed. ● Be patient with the natural ups and downs. And remember: If you’re unsure what’s appropriate for their age, feel free to reach out to us we’re always happy to guide you. 2. Balancing Piano With Academic Pressures Schoolwork grows heavier as children get older, and it’s normal for motivation to shift during busy periods. Practice may not look the same during exam weeks and that’s completely okay. Supportive strategies: ● Keep practice short and focused when schedules are tight. ● Create a weekly routine that includes music, even in small doses. ● Let your teacher know when school gets especially intense. We can always adjust lesson content, repertoire, or expectations when we know what your child is juggling. You’re welcome to reach out anytime. 3. Supporting Emotional Ups and Downs Piano challenges students in ways that build resilience but frustration sometimes comes with the process. What helps: ● Validate their feelings (“That part is tricky!”). ● Celebrate their small wins children thrive on noticing their own progress. ● Introduce a “proud moment of the week” ritual. If emotional blocks persist, message us or mention it in lessons. Sometimes one small adjustment from the teacher can make a big difference. 4. Keeping Piano Fun and Personally Meaningful Children stay engaged when they connect with their music. Try adding: ● A piece they choose each term ● Music from films, games, or artists they love ● Creative tasks like composing or improvising ● Duets with siblings or parents If you’re ever unsure what repertoire would excite your child, ask us if we're happy to personalise suggestions. 5. Stay Connected With Your Teacher Piano progress is a partnership. As your child grows, their needs change and we’re here to support every stage. You can: ● Check in with us once a term ● Reach out between lessons with small questions ● Let us know about school stress, emotions, or changes at home We’re always here to help your child flourish at the piano.

Why Piano Lessons Are the Best First Instrument for Kids Ages 5-9

November 3, 2025
Is piano really the best instrument to start my 6- or 7-year-old on? Piano is widely recognized as the most accessible first instrument for children, especially between ages 5–9, because it’s intuitive, builds transferable skills, and gives them confidence to explore music further. Here’s why we believe piano to be the first best instrument to start learning on: Visual and logical layout: The keys are arranged in a way that makes learning notes and patterns simple for children. Unlike string instruments, kids don’t need to worry about tuning or finger placement precision right away. Gentle on small hands: Pressing keys is easier than stretching tiny fingers around guitar frets or violin strings. Instant sound success: Children can play simple songs from day one, which keeps motivation high. Actionable tips we recommend to parents: Find the right teacher: Look for someone who specializes in young beginners and uses games, movement, and creativity alongside note reading. Choose the right instrument: We are happy to recommend where you can buy these from but in short, a full-size digital piano with weighted keys is often better than a small keyboard as this builds strength and mobility in the fingers. Set up a practice routine: Start with 5 minutes a day, same time each day (after homework or before bedtime works well). Keep it fun: Ask your teacher about duets, familiar songs, or apps that turn practice into a game. If you’d like to find out more contact us using our form: www.keysoundsuk.com/book-class

Three Signs to See if Your Child is Ready for Piano Lessons

October 27, 2025
How do I know if my 5–7 year old is ready to start piano lessons? Here are three simple signs that show they’re ready to begin piano lessons. 1. They Can Tell Left from Right Since piano uses both hands independently, knowing left from right helps children follow instructions and feel confident at the keyboard. Tip for parents: If your child is still learning, making playful stickers on each hand (L & R) can work wonders. 2. They Can Recognize Letters A–G The piano is built around these seven letters. If your child can already identify them, it’s much easier to connect notes to the keys. Tip for parents: Practice spotting A–G during everyday activities alphabet books, fridge magnets, or singing the musical alphabet. 3. They Show an Interest in Music at Home If your child already sings along to songs in the car, dances in the living room, or taps rhythms on the table, that curiosity is a strong sign they’ll enjoy lessons. Piano builds on these natural instincts and channels them into learning. Tip for parents: Encourage these habits, ask what their favorite song is, clap the beat together, or let them “perform” their version at home. If you’d like to find out more contact us using our form: www.keysoundsuk.com/book-class
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