One of my favorite summer activities is setting aside time to brainstorm and plan for the next year’s studio practice incentive theme.
It’s so fun to go over all the input from my students and their parents during our Year-End Evaluations. I solicit specific theme ideas in their questionnaires and then we also discuss areas they want to focus on and improve over the next year. I also refer to my student evaluations to see what areas I think they need to grow musically. Between that and various ideas I’ve been collecting over the past several months from Bible reading, music teaching articles and workshops, and notes during lessons I get to work. Oh, and of course, a container of gelato is essential for this process to work!
There are four components that I consider whenever I’m planning a new piano practice incentive theme in my studio:
1. Age and Level Inclusiveness
2. Realistic and Measurable Goals
3. Student Options
4. Rewards that Contribute to Musical Growth
I love the enthusiasm and camaraderie that studio-wide practice incentive themes bring to my studio and can’t imagine teaching any other way! I’m excited to see where planning for this next year will lead. Stay tuned for news of any developments…!
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