Is this a quote from Yoda?

Of course, the famous quote from Yoda to Luke Skywalker in “Return of the Jedi” (Star Wars Episode 5) is about committing fully. Not just “trying” but doing something or not doing it. I adapted it toward practice. So let’s unpack what that looks like

Trying to Practice

Many times, we have well intentioned plans. And life can get in the way. The busyness of life can keep us from accomplishing those tasks. I’ve had many students say to me, “I really wanted to practice this week, but my schedule was busy.” And I totally understand that. It was the same dilemma for me when I was a student. It’s still the same for me as an adult, running my own business and trying to keep my skills up!

So What To Do?

Back when I was taking lessons, my mom made me practice while she did dishes after dinner in the evenings. One helpful thing for parents and students to do is to have a set practice time. Of course that may have to be flexible, but if parents are financially committing to lessons and committing the time to lessons, then practice is going to help get the best value out of that expense. 

Taking Advice from Yoda

One of the things that can get a bit confusing when it comes to practice is what counts as practice time. Do you have to practice for 30 minutes straight with no break? Maybe. But does short spurts of 5 minutes sprinkled throughout the day count? Yoda would say that’s a “do”.  See, something is better than nothing. I remind those students with the “I didn’t get to practice this week” excuses, that there’s probably 5 minutes they could have put into practicing. 5 minutes of practice is better than 0. 10 is better than 5, 30 is better than 10, etc. All too often, we feel like we have to get it perfect before we even start.

How To Have a Yoda Mentality

So, let’s go back to what Yoda originally said. “Do or do not. There is no try.” So it’s either the task is accomplished or not. Practice is an individual thing and it’s going to be about what best fits your schedule and rhythm of life. For me, we didn’t have a dishwasher, so my mom had to hand wash the dishes. So Craig, you provide entertainment. So I did. I’ve tried to encourage that in my daughters as my older daughter sings and my younger daughter sings and plays percussion. We’ve left the drums and marimba out upstairs, and there’s times where she’ll walk by and start playing. That counts! Figuring out a rhythm of practice takes time and persistence. You can do it! There is no try!

Summer Lessons

Speaking of practice, in the summer, there is less school and activity distraction and can be a great time to dive into practice. Harmanny Music Education is here to help with that. Summer lessons and a singing camp for 5-7 year olds is available in June and July. You can find out more here!