[00:00:00] VO Artist: Welcome to Your Creative Chord Podcast, where host Jenny Leigh Hodgins, author and educator, shares unique insights dedicated to empowering your creative flow and inspired living. Through solo reflections and dialogues with creators and wellness experts, Jenny Leigh shares holistic wisdom influenced by her Buddhist practice, alongside poetic insights and practical strategies for living authentically.

[00:00:28] This podcast helps you overcome challenges and unlock your full creative potential.

[00:00:43] Jenny Leigh: Welcome listeners to Your Creative Chord Podcast, Episode 65, Piano Tips: How Incremental Practice Unlocks Your Potential. I'm your host, Jenny Leigh Hodgins, and this episode is designed to help you on your piano learning journey with actionable tips and useful resources to unlock your piano potential.

[00:01:04] Today's episode's focus is on a practical tip for beginners and intermediate learners, actually even advanced pianists. Players can use this well related to my Start Piano: What You Need For Successful Learning book and my Unlock Your Piano Potential ebook and the tips that are found there in, I also want to invite you to two upcoming events.

[00:01:24] On January 21, 2025, we're going to have a piano panel discussion with other piano educators and also the launch of my Essential Piano Basics course on January 22, 2025. The panel event on January 21 will specifically answer or address questions and struggles you may have when starting or progressing with your piano learning journey.

[00:01:50] More details are coming soon inside the New and Returning Piano Learners Facebook group and on Your Creative Chord podcast, so stay tuned. If you're ready to kickstart your piano learning or you need some fresh ideas to help you put your progress momentum, make sure to grab my free Unlock Your Piano Potential ebook.

[00:02:10] It is full of tips and strategies that will help new and returning piano learners move forward with confidence. And you can get it at YourCreativeChord.com/pianostrategies. All the links are in the show notes for you to easily grab. Now let's jump into today's piano tip about incremental practice.

[00:02:31] Hey, Hey, Hey, I just wanted to pop in and talk about how to improve your piano skills with incremental piano practice. If you are a piano learner or you're new to it, or you're coming back to it, please come and join us. And if you know somebody that might benefit from this, please share this with them. I would really appreciate it.

[00:02:47] If you're new as a, as a busy adult, or if you're returning to piano as a busy adult, finding time to practice piano as busy adults can be really challenging sometimes. I recommend a daily habit of piano practice to make the most impact on your musical progress. And the best way really is to schedule piano practice by figuring out what your best time of day is for your creative energy.

[00:03:13] So in other words, I don't manage my time by time. I manage it by how I feel physically. Emotionally, mentally, for me, my best energy is in the morning. It sets a positive tone and it gives me a sense of creative accomplishment. It really starts the tone of the day well for me. So you've got to figure out what works for you, when your creative energy is best and highly recommend to schedule it at that time of day and aim to make it a regular daily habit.

[00:03:38] But when I'm talking about incremental practice, you can actually use this incremental practice approach. As part of your regular schedule. But for me, I've been using it because my regular schedule has been a challenge. Sometimes, you know, life events interfere with our chosen practice timeframe. Stuff happens at certain times of the year.

[00:03:58] Unexpected things can occur like at whole chapters of our lives. And these events can literally knock our piano practice rhythm out of whack. There were times that I really couldn't practice piano for stretches of weeks because it was so overwhelming. And I've tackled. My daily piano practice routine relentlessly.

[00:04:17] I keep coming back trying to make that daily habit out of it. Take it from me that having a set schedule definitely works best, but when unrelated tasks can bombard you, for me one technique that helps keep my piano practice moving forward is something called incremental practice. It also helps move the needle forward whenever you find your musical practice stalled.

[00:04:38] Or if you feel stuck in a rut at the piano, this really works. When I say incremental practice, what I mean by that is just practicing in short chunks of music, but specifically choosing sections of the musical piece where you struggle the most, like the parts that you're not doing well. Somewhere in the music where you hesitate, you can't play it fluently.

[00:04:59] You make repeated errors, you feel tense, or you're just plain old uncertain, not confident of it. For example, for me, I've been practicing the Chopin Revolutionary Etude. It's a challenging piece no matter what, and so what I do is I choose a particular section of that Chopin Etude that is far more challenging for me technically while playing both hands together at tempo.

[00:05:22] I slowly play. That particular section with both hands together, and if I find that still too challenging, I'll play only one hand in that section. Then I'll play the other hand just of that section. I don't go further, I don't start before, I don't go further on, and then I try both hands together when I can do each hand separately.

[00:05:41] Once I can play that section without struggle, With both hands together, slowly, correctly, I just leave the, the Chopin etude all together and then I shift and I go play something completely different, whether it's memorized repertoire that I run through, some technical exercise, a scale, some chords, arpeggios, a piece that I'm reviewing, or I'll sight read something new, just something completely different, unrelated to that Chopin revolutionary etude, and I'll do that for about 10 or 20 minutes and then I return to the same Chopin Revolutionary Etude section, and I practice just that section again.

[00:06:17] And as I just described, then I'll do it again. I'll leave the etude and I'll go do something completely different. And now for something completely different. If you remember Monty Python, they used to do that. I'll do something completely different for 10 or 20 minutes. Then I'll come back again to that Chopin revolutionary etude in that particular trouble section of that piece.

[00:06:38] I don't go anywhere else in it. I just go to the part that I was working on that gave me the most trouble. And once I can actually play that section with mastery, both hands at tempo. I don't stop there. Instead, once I can play the musical selection correctly, I practice playing only that section accurately multiple times.

[00:06:59] And I don't mean three, two or three times. I mean, you know, like eight to 10 times correctly, multiple times to really get it in my head. So it was not a fluke. And if I make mistakes and wrong answer, I start Counting from ground zero. I don't count anything from that point. I only count if I can play it correctly, fluently, confidently, and with mastery, consecutively multiple times, like eight to ten times.

[00:07:23] Once I can play that section correctly multiple times, consecutively, then I'll move on to another chunked area in the Revolutionary Etude that I need to troubleshoot. And I'll work on that small section in the same way. However, I will say I have been very short on time for my piano practice, so I don't always get to practice the part of incremental practice where you're playing that section multiple times accurately in a row.

[00:07:48] If I don't have time for that, I'll skip that part of it, but I just keep jump starting my piano practice with this incremental, repetitive approach to only the parts of my music repertoire that need the most work. Because when I do that, it dramatically impacts My musical progress. I really see the difference when I come back to that the next day or the next week or whatever my time allows.

[00:08:13] And the reason I'm bringing up incremental practice is because I taught piano and music for over 30 years. And I've seen too many piano learners basically play through every musical selection they have from the start to the finish. Including, unfortunately, every mistake. They never actually step back to evaluate where they most need to improve.

[00:08:36] And this practice approach, unfortunately, playing from start to end, including mistakes, and just repeatedly playing it, That leads to incorrectly learning the music. You're basically playing the music inaccurately as a habit and you're ingraining the music incorrectly in your brain and your fingers.

[00:08:53] Instead, you know, incremental practice, that, that approach as well as my general approach to music practice is to work on your weaknesses by going straight toward only the parts of the music that you have not yet mastered. You have to hold off that instant gratification a little bit. And go straight to the part that you don't have, that you haven't mastered it yet.

[00:09:17] This is a very broad kind of overview how to do it. You'll have to break it down per whatever your level is, and pick the things that are hard for you. Whether it's the fingering, being able to play it without hesitation, at a steady beat, at tempo. Like maybe you're playing it okay, but you need to be able to play it faster.

[00:09:33] Or maybe you can't play it slowly, and you need to practice that. Because practicing slowly is hard. The point is, you have to choose. What part of the music is challenging for you personally and go straight for that weakness and practice only that Part of the music or that section of the music or that element of the music because by going straight to those trouble parts You're gonna see the most progress in your piano playing skills by challenging yourself to strengthen your weakest areas So work on this stuff.

[00:10:02] That's not easy for you that you haven't mastered and don't get overwhelmed by it Break it down into small chunks You And just repeat it and just focus on that for a good solid chunk of time and then do something completely different. Go and do something else, instant gratification, play something you already can play well, play something new or whatever you want to do to refresh your brain.

[00:10:23] And then go back to that same section that you're working on and repeat that process. I guarantee if you use this incremental repetitive approach, it will really improve your progress. And then once you've got it mastered, play it correctly, accurately, multiple times, as in eight to 10 times, not like two or three, really get it in there.

[00:10:42] So you've really got it solidified in your brain, in your ears, in your fingers. 

[00:10:46] Pardon this brief interruption. I'm Jenilee Hodgins and I'm excited to share two resources that can truly enhance your life or serve as thoughtful gifts for those you care about. First, Kaleidoscope of the Heart, a collection of poetry and lyrics, is a beautiful, diverse, and therapeutic exploration of the human experience.

[00:11:07] My verses reflect my inner transformation and serve as a powerful tool to help others tap into their inherent empowerment. With a range of poetic and lyrical styles and themes, from relationships and nature to self empowerment and resilience, This collection offers hope and strength through the power of authentic expression.

[00:11:29] Whether you're new to poetry or a long time reader, its reflective and spiritually optimistic qualities Make it a unique source of comfort and insight one reader shared quote Jenny has gifted us with a comprehensive dive into universal matters of the heart nature relationships loss and grief hope and the artist's life this poetry offers moments of introspection and illumination about our human condition and quote Second, if you or someone you know is interested in learning piano, Start Piano, What You Need for Successful Learning is an invaluable guide.

[00:12:13] This book covers everything from choosing the right keyboard and finding a great teacher to mastering effective practice techniques. It's perfect for new learners and those returning to the piano. Both books make fantastic gifts as well. For holiday shopping or special occasions, buying Kaleidoscope of the Heart in bulk?

[00:12:34] To share with friends and family is an easy way to spread inspiration and joy. Similarly, bulk orders of Start Piano can equip aspiring musicians and educators alike with valuable tools for success. You can discover both books at YourCreativeChord.com/BOOKS. I am confident they'll bring value and inspiration to you and those you care about.

[00:13:00] Okay. Now let's explore how you can apply today's effective piano practice tip about incremental practice to your own piano routine, and make the most of the upcoming resources I've created to help you build consistent piano progress. 

[00:13:15] Remember to join my January 21, 2025 Piano Panel event inside the New and Returning Piano Learners Facebook group and sign up for my Essential Piano Basics course launching on January 22, 2025, where I'll help you build a strong foundation for your piano skills and progress.

[00:13:36] Let's deepen the discussion with practical applications. How can we make the most out of today's tip in your day to day practice? One of the biggest challenges we face is staying consistent with practice and overcoming our self doubt when we don't feel like the needle is moving forward. And it's normal to feel overwhelmed and sometimes get frustrated in your piano practice.

[00:14:00] But remember that small, consistent, steady efforts will pay off. accumulated over time. And if you practice the incremental practice strategy I just shared with you today, make sure to incorporate it daily or as many days as possible during your week to see progress. 

[00:14:19] The incremental practice strategy is a perfect way to use short but highly focused practice sessions on a specific section or piece that make a greater impact, especially when your busy schedule might cut your piano practice time down or even your attention span.

[00:14:37] You can start using this incremental practice technique with only five to ten minutes of repertoire selection or a section within your repertoire. Now you might be thinking, okay, that sounds great, but I don't know how to choose the right spot or which musical element or how to stay focused.

[00:14:56] Or I get frustrated when I keep making mistakes. 

[00:14:59] This is where that incremental practice strategy comes in.

[00:15:02] Specifically, you're going to look for trouble spots. Or specific musical elements within a section or a piece that you want to improve, or a section in a piece where you feel a little bit hesitant. That's a perfect place to use the incremental practice strategy.

[00:15:20] For me, this incremental practice keeps my piano momentum alive, especially when my schedule is packed. By using this strategy, I'm able to fit in smaller moments of highly focused, mindful practice that move my piano progress forward. This really keeps me from losing momentum or feeling discouraged about my lack of available time to practice. I highly recommend incremental practice. 

[00:15:50] Additionally, especially if you're looking to develop a solid foundation for your piano progress, my essential piano basics course is perfect for you. In the course we'll tackle these challenges head on providing you with structured lessons and support to help you get started on a solid foundation, break through plateaus or obstacles, and stay on the right track toward musical progress. 

[00:16:14] Join the wait list for my Essential Piano Basics course at yourcreativechord. com forward slash courses. The course is designed to give you a clear path to a solid piano foundation, just like the incremental practice method we're discussing today.

[00:16:33] The Essential Piano Basics course is designed to help you tackle the very challenges we're discussing today and guide you through everything you need to build a strong foundation and overcome common pitfalls and overcome common pitfalls. 

[00:16:49] Join me for the January 21, 2025 piano panel discussion inside the New and Returning Piano Learners Facebook group, where we will be answering your burning questions about getting started and or improving your piano skills.

[00:17:03] The panel discussions are literally straight from the members inside the group.

[00:17:07] When you join the group, you'll not only be part of the panel event, but you'll also be part of a supportive community of piano learners. You'll have direct access to me for any questions, tips, or encouragement on your piano journey.

[00:17:22] Plus, you'll be the first to hear about my upcoming essential piano basics course and get exclusive resources to help you build a strong foundation. Join today and let's grow together. 

[00:17:33] You can join at the link in the show notes or search new and returning piano learners in Facebook groups.

[00:17:40] Thank you so much for tuning into this episode of Your Creative Chord podcast. 

[00:17:44] Remember your piano learning journey is unique and with the right tools, the right foundation, mindset, and support, you can make amazing progress.

[00:17:55] If you haven't already, grab your copy of Start Piano, What You Need for Successful Learning, available on Amazon.

[00:18:03] And you can also grab it at yourcreativechord. com forward slash books. And don't forget to grab your free Unlock Your Piano Potential ebook at yourcreativechord.com/piano strategies. 

[00:18:17] I'd really love to hear about your piano progress with today's incremental practice tip. How will you use this strategy in your routine this week?

[00:18:26] I would really love to hear specifically what repertoire or what type of section or what musical element you'll be working on using this technique and let me know the results you're getting from it. 

[00:18:38] Join us in my Facebook groups, share your journey, include your struggles, your wins and your tips, or reach out with any questions you have about piano.

[00:18:47] I'm here to support your continued creative flow and help you achieve the piano goals you've set for yourself.

[00:18:54] Happy practicing this week. I will see you next time on Your Creative Chord podcast, where we empower our creative flow and inspire living. 

[00:19:03] VO Artist: Thank you for listening to Your Creative Chord podcast. If you found inspiration in today's episode, please leave a review and subscribe to the show. Your support helps spread the message of creativity and inspired living. Stay connected with Jenny Leigh and a vibrant community of creatives and curious minds.

[00:19:23] Visit YourCreativeChord.com for more resources. Remember daily life is where your creative flow begins. Embrace the journey.