972-722-6874

Add a Little Variety to Your Practice Routine

10/12/2015

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One of my favorite professors in college was lecturing on the various ways a teacher can teach different concepts to their students when one of my fellow classmates asked, “Which of these teaching techniques is the least effective way of teaching?” We each waited with baited breath to hear what he would say. His answer stunned us because it was so simple and yet so enlightening. He replied, “The method you use all the time becomes the least effective method.” He went on to explain that no matter how fresh and innovative a teaching method is, when used over and over it can become less and less effective.

I believe the same can be said for how a music student practices their musical instrument. It’s easy to get stuck in a rut by practicing in the exact same way every time– adding variety to your practice routine can help keep things interesting!  Each week, a student is expected to complete specific practice assignments from their teacher, but they can approach their assignments in a different way each time.

To help with this, I have designed our unique and Exclusive RSM Weekly Practice Plan, called the 10 X 10 Plan For Success. Each day the lesson, technique, theory, and rhythm assignments are emphasized along with additional bonus tips to help develop the many skills needed to become a well-rounded musician.  Try it out! To see a sample of this practice plan, go here: 10 x 10 Plan for Success

Good luck! I hope this information will help you jump-start your practice time at home and allow you to energize the way you learn. Routines are helpful but being locked into a rut can remove the joy from your music.  Let’s help keep the music alive by keeping it interesting!  See you soon—

Serving you with integrity and gratitude,

Russ Porter, Ambassador for the Arts

Director, Rockwall School of Music

749 Justin Rd, Rockwall, TX 75087

972-722-6874  |  www.rockwallmusic.com

 

 

Rockwall School of Music Receives National Award of Excellence!

Rockwall School of Music Receives National Award of Excellence!

Apr 15, 2025 |

We’re still beaming with excitement and gratitude—and we couldn’t wait to share the news with our wonderful Rockwall community! Karen and I are absolutely thrilled to announce that Rockwall School of Music has been honored with the Award of Excellence from the Music...

Rafael Alvarez
If you want to get in to music
Best place.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for the great review, Rafael. We're thrilled you think we're the best place to get into music and look forward to supporting your musical journey. If you need anything, stop by or contact us anytime.
Britney W
My son loved Blake as his teacher for drum lessons! He was fun and seemed amazing with kids. He was motivational and we will miss him teaching at the school. However, we are very excited to continue lessons with Michael! He seems very great at what he does as well and equally amazing!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Britney. We're thrilled your son enjoyed lessons with Blake and that Blake was fun and motivating with kids. We’ll let Blake know he’ll be missed and are excited Michael is continuing lessons; he’s an excellent teacher and we’re glad he’s a great fit. Please reach out anytime if you need scheduling help or have questions.
Elizabeth Wilson
We have had such an incredible experience at Rockwall School of Music!! Everyone is so wonderful from the sweet girls in the front (Darcy and Ashlyn) to the fantastic teachers (Stuart and Tara). We love this place!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Elizabeth! We’re thrilled Darcy, Ashlyn, Stuart, and Tara made your experience so positive and that you love our school. We appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to help your family grow musically.
Anish alex mathew
Mr. Julian Mileski is an exceptional teacher who has inspired our children not only to grow as pianists, but also to develop as musicians. His dedication, encouragement, and expert guidance continually motivate his students to achieve excellence and reach their full potential. We are truly grateful to Mr. Julian and Rockwall School of Music for the positive impact they have had on our children’s musical journey.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Anish, for your wonderful review and for trusting Mr. Julian Mileski and Rockwall School of Music with your children’s musical development. We are thrilled to hear Julian’s dedication and guidance have inspired and motivated your children to grow as pianists and musicians. Your kind words mean a great deal to us and motivate our whole team to continue providing excellent instruction. We look forward to supporting their continued progress and musical success.
Kelsey Oudshoorn-Lynn
I’ve loved teaching here. The owners are very kind and make the teachers feel special and they give us opportunities to learn. The students are great, too.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Kelsey. We’re thrilled you enjoy teaching here and appreciate how the owners support and invest in our team. Your dedication to our students and enthusiasm for learning make a real difference, and we’re grateful to have you with us.
Perla Vazquez
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the 5-star rating, Perla! We appreciate your support and look forward to welcoming you back soon.
Andy Burgos
I been in these class since 2 years ( I think). And so far, I'm really glad I'm learning to play the piano. Thanks to the teacher, Michael for helping me throughout the lesson. I know that I'm not that easy, and I get nervous. But I'm glad I'm learning to play the piano.
Thank you.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for being with our classes these past two years and for the kind words. We're thrilled Michael has been able to support you through your lessons and help you grow even when you feel nervous. Your dedication really shows, and we're so glad you're enjoying learning the piano. We look forward to continuing to support your progress.
Jennifer Cawthon
Excellent school for music lessons and teachers are all fantastic! My grandson has been going for years!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Jennifer! We're thrilled your grandson has been with us for years and that our teachers have made such a positive impact. We appreciate your support and look forward to many more years of music together.
Julian Mileski
Response from the owner:Thank you, Julian, for the five-star review! We’re thrilled you had a great experience and appreciate your support. We look forward to serving you again soon.
S Zac
My son has attended here since elementary school and he is now in high school. Teachers here are outstanding!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback, Zac. We’re honored your son has been with us since elementary school and are proud our teachers have made a positive impact as he progresses to high school. We appreciate your continued trust and support.