Time to Practise !

Sviatoslav Richter practising ...

Happy first day of the year pianists and pianists in making .........

Enough celebrating—now go and PRACTISE ! No extended holidays for pianists, lol.

As Richter famously said: “One day without practicing, and I notice it. Two days, and my family/friends notice it. Three days, and the audience notices it.”

Touché ! Richter really knew how to deliver a truth that stings but also - motivates.

All right—no holiday excuses for pianists. Time to practise.

But at least remember: good practice > long practice. Even Richter was ruthless about focus, not just hours.

So, if you want a quick, no-nonsense way to “earn” today’s practice. here is my advice:

~ 5 - 10 minutes: Hanon exercises or slow scales and arpeggios, with absolute control of tone

~ 10 - 15 minutes: practise the most difficult bar(s) you have been avoiding in a challenging (for you) piece

~ 10 - 15 minutes: hands separate, then together, under tempo

~ 5 - 10 minutes: play something you love, just for the sound of it and enjoyment

That’s enough to make sure you notice nothing wrong tomorrow :)

Now… off you go .............................

© Alternative Approach to Music: Inspiring - Healing - Empowering, Xenia Elizabeth Zilli