New Year, New Goals: Setting the Right Practice Routine for Success at Dynamic Music Studios in Coralville, Iowa
- Dynamic Music Studios
- Jan 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 24
As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our musical journeys and set fresh goals for growth and improvement. Whether you’ve been taking music lessons for a while or are just getting started, setting specific, actionable goals can help you make the most of your practice time and take your skills to the next level. Here at Dynamic Music Studios in Coralville, Iowa, we’re excited to support you through every step of your musical progress, and we’ve got some tips to help you start the year off strong!
1. Reflect on Where You Are
Before diving into new goals, take a moment to reflect on your current skills and progress. What pieces have you mastered? What skills do you still find challenging? Perhaps you’ve learned a few new pieces, but your intonation or rhythm could use some work. Write down a few things you’re proud of from last year and areas where you want to improve. This reflection will guide your goal-setting process.
2. Set Specific, Measurable Goals
General goals like “practice more” or “get better at music” are great in theory but can be hard to measure. Try setting clear, achievable goals like:
• “Practice scales for 15 minutes every day.”
• “Learn a new piece by the end of the month.”
• “Improve sight-reading by practicing a new piece every week.”
These specific goals give you a clear direction, and measuring your progress will keep you motivated.
3. Break It Down Into Manageable Steps
We all know how overwhelming it can be when we aim too high too quickly. Breaking down larger goals into smaller, more achievable steps can make your practice feel less daunting. For example, if your goal is to learn a complex piece, break it down by sections, focusing on one part (a few measures) at a time until you can play the whole piece confidently.
At Dynamic Music Studios, your instructor can work with you to break goals into digestible pieces that align with your personal abilities and aspirations.
4. Set a Consistent Practice Schedule
Consistency is key to improvement. Music is a physical activity. This year, set a specific practice routine that fits your schedule. Even 20-30 minutes of focused practice every day can be more effective than long sessions that are spaced too far apart. If you’re unsure how much time you should be dedicating to your instrument, your teacher can help you find the balance that works best for you.
5. Stay Accountable
Sometimes, having someone to check in with can make all the difference. Share your goals with your teacher, a friend, or a fellow musician, and make a plan for regular progress updates. Accountability keeps you on track and adds an extra layer of motivation, especially when the going gets tough. Look for upcoming information about our Practice-a-thon challenge/charity fundraiser to add that layer of accountability.
6. Be Kind to Yourself
Remember that growth in music (and in life!) takes time. You might encounter challenges or setbacks along the way, but that’s part of the learning process. Celebrate small victories and don’t get discouraged if things don’t go as quickly as you’d hoped. Enjoy the journey and trust that your hard work will pay off.
7. Make Your Goals Fun
Learning music is a creative and joyful experience—don’t forget to have fun with it! Set goals that excite you, whether it’s learning a favorite piece, experimenting with improvisation, or performing in front of an audience. When your practice feels enjoyable, you’ll be more likely to stick with it.
8. Seek Support and Guidance
At Dynamic Music Studios, we’re here to support you throughout the year. If you ever feel stuck or unsure about how to achieve your goals, reach out to your instructor. They can offer guidance, recommend practice techniques, and help you stay motivated through any challenges.
Let’s Make This Year Your Best Yet!
This new year is full of possibilities for your musical growth. By setting clear, realistic goals and committing to regular practice, you’ll see tremendous progress by the time 2026 rolls around. Whether you're preparing for a recital, learning a new instrument, or simply refining your skills, we're excited to be part of your musical journey in Coralville. Here’s to a year of growth, creativity, and music!
Feel free to reach out to us today to discuss your goals and schedule a lesson that aligns with your vision. Let’s make this year your most musical one yet!
Let’s hear from you! What are your musical goals for the new year? Share them with us on social media or during your next lesson!
This post was written by owner and viola/violin instructor Christina Mixemong at Dynamic Music Studios in Coralville, Iowa.
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