There is no doubt that you have been working hard throughout the school year. You’ve had your year end recital, concert and maybe jury. There is nothing wrong with a break. However there are some very compelling reasons why you shouldn’t take the whole summer off.
1. Stay on top of your game
By taking lessons during the summer you can avoid that feeling in September that you have to catch up or get back into shape. Summer can be a time for relaxing but it can also be a time where it’s hard to stay focused. With lessons you will have a weekly check in and keep your goals in sight.
2. Be Ready for Auditions
For many, September is time for placement auditions. Whether you will know what pieces will be asked or not, having your fundamentals ready will allow you to focus on the pieces themselves and the challenges they present.
3. Brush up on Your Fundamentals
Summer is a great time to refocus on your tone, technique or other aspects of your playing that you feel are not where you would like them to be. During the year we can start off on the right foot and then get caught up in working on pieces for festivals and recitals. Having strong fundamentals will improve all pieces you work on and make learning them easier and quicker.
4. Learn Something New
Always wanted to learn how to circular breathe? Maybe there’s a piece with some weird technique that you’ve always wanted to learn? Summer is a great time to focus in on a project that you’re interested in. Sometimes during the year we get so into working on pieces for ensembles we don’t get to work on our own interests. Now is the time to expand your horizons.
5. Play Some Ensemble Pieces
You don’t always get to play the ensemble pieces you would like to, make time to find some friends that share your interests. It can be hard to stay focused but if you have a group of friends to be practice buddies with the task can now be a social event with colleagues and possibly snacks or a drink after. You can make practicing a team effort.
6. Get Inspired!
What a great time to get ideas and explore where you want to go musically. Learn about new pieces, techniques and players. Lessons can also include listening to some great recordings and going to summer concerts.
Whether you decide to have private or group lessons or enjoy a week or two at music camp keep on playing!
If you’re a string player in Victoria check out the GVYO String Camp
In Saskatoon the take a look at Saskatchewan Band Association and for adult brass and percussion players check out Prairie Music Residency.
Students in Alberta should look at MusiCamp Alberta and adults in Edmonton please look at Rusty Musicians Summer Camp with players in the Edmonton Symphony.
What did I miss? Any other reasons you can think of for taking lessons?