Unlocking the Benefits of Summer Piano Practice: Part 1

As the warmth of summer fills the air and schools close their doors for the break, many students eagerly anticipate months of relaxation and freedom from academic routines. However, amidst the leisurely days and carefree moments, lies an opportunity for students to enrich their lives and expand their horizons in unexpected ways. One such avenue is through the art of piano practice. What? Did she say "practice”?

Even though the idea of a break is appealing, in truth, much ground is lost when the piano isn’t touched for 2 months or more.

So what can we do?

Well, summer is a great time to keep the music going by choosing fun and easy pieces to learn. These should be well below their current ability and definitely need to be appealing. Pop tunes or jazzy blues are great options. It needs to be fun to keep their interest and easy so it doesn’t become another overwhelming piece to learn.

For those that crave a more social element, summer music camps, workshops, or group classes are ways that offer students the opportunity to connect with peers who share their passion. Music has a remarkable ability to bring people together. Encouraging small bands to form with their musical friends is also a great way to keep the music rolling. Maybe they know kids from the school band or even other pianists whom they’ve met at recitals. There is all kinds of sheet music for various combinations that can be found on the internet.

Once they’ve put together a short set, encourage them to take it down to the local farmers market for some outdoor busking. Or maybe there is an outdoor festival? Here in our town we have an outdoor summer concert series where local amateur musicians are invited to play the “Tweener”. Short, 15 minute sets that occur while the headliner is taking a break. (This is where digital pianos come in handy!) It’s fun and usually leads to more invitations to play.

So is there room for technical exercises in-between all this musical merry making? Stay tuned for Part 2 of The Benefits of Summer Piano Practice for Students where I ponder whether there is a place for practicing technique in the summer and how to make it fun as well!

Investing time in piano practice during the summer months yield long-term benefits that extend well into adulthood. Whether students pursue music as a career or simply as a lifelong hobby, the skills and values they acquire through piano practice – discipline, creativity, perseverance – serve them well in all aspects of life.