Ideas for Music Students to Get the Most from Summer Break

Summer is finally here, which means it’s time for a multitude of activities perfect for the kids – camping and hiking at the local lake, hosting backyard BBQs and sleepovers, and of course, taking countless trips to the city pool. Without the structured schedule of school, classes, homework, tests and more, it means that students are looking forward to a little more freedom and chances to relax and have fun. At Stages Music Arts we are all about fun times, but we want to share some ideas for music students to get the most from summer break.

While it is important to soak up the magic of summer and let students make memories and experience new things, a lot of knowledge and skill can be lost over the summer if lessons are glossed over, especially for active music students. Achieving that rather delicate balance of staying on top of lessons while also experiencing all that summer offers can be difficult, but we have some advice that could help. 

Create a Practice Schedule

Whether students are taking music lessons online or face to face, we recommend they practice 20 minutes every day. This helps keep practice bite sized yet effective enough to work through pieces of music or any parts they might struggle with. Doing it each day keeps it fresh in one’s memory, too, and ensures that those skills stay honed and sharp. You would be amazed at how easy it is to forget even core information with too long of a break!

If you are on vacation and you can’t bring your instrument with you, such as while on a cruise or family trip, be sure to double up on practice when you get back. For each day that you are gone, add 20 minutes to your practice time. Or break it up and give yourself 20 minutes of practice twice a day until you are caught up with where you need to be. Getting into a routine like this will really set you up for success and fill in any gaps in knowledge that might occur. 

Change up the Music

Summer is an excellent time to try something new! If you, as a music student, find what you are working on to be boring or daunting, it can be extremely difficult to stay motivated and focused. This can spiral and leave you feeling burned out and inclined to throw in the towel altogether. To avoid this, we recommend trying out a new piece!

Think about it: is there a new song on the radio that you’ve been dying to try out? What about a piece you just didn’t have time for during your busy schedule during the school year? Break it out and take it for a test run! Not only will this sharpen skills and keep you on your toes, but it’s the perfect way to jump back in and feel reinvested in your music and your instrument. 

Jam with Friends

Friendship and summer fun are just two things that go naturally hand in hand. One of the best parts of the break is that you have more time to spend with your friends and people that you love. So why not use this time to start up a jam session? Whether you all play the same instrument or they are completely different, there is always a piece that you can play together. Or get creative and make up your own song! The possibilities are endless.

Not only that, but playing with a friend creates an accountability partner. If you are stuck on a part and getting frustrated, they likely won’t let you quit so easily. They might hear something you don’t and help you work through it. Having a friend can be extremely encouraging, as they push us and motivate us even in the face of hiccups or mistakes. Plus, getting to return the favor and help them with something can feel really rewarding!

Take a Breather

We know that we have been talking about making the most out of your break by finding creative ways to stay motivated, but if you’re reaching burn out, it really is okay to take a breather. This is one of the key reasons we suggest keeping practice to around 20 minutes a day instead of at larger intervals. If you are frustrated with your playing, simply forcing it can make things even worse. 

During your downtime between practices and your music lessons, make the most of it. Focus on doing other things that you love! Play video games, catch up on your favorite TV series, or read the books or comics you’ve been dying to. Don’t forget to get out and move your body by taking a hike or visiting the local pool. You never know where you will find inspiration and motivation again!

About Stages Music Arts

Our mission is to help you find your unique voice by playing the music you love from the start. We strive to inspire students of all ages and abilities to discover your passion, gain confidence, master your instrument and thrive in a supportive community. At Stages Music Arts, you become part of a community centered around the joy and soul of making music!