First We Prep, Then We Play 🎹

Fresh Ideas to Prepare for Piano Guild

Getting ready for the Piano Guild Auditions can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming, especially if it's your first year. We have children of all ages, as well as adults performing programs. Here are some friendly tips to help you or your child prepare in a way that feels comfortable and enjoyable. Please take a few moments to review this information with the perfomer, as we are just over a month away from Piano Guild 2025.

1. Practice Regularly and Well

• Create a practice schedule that fits into your routine leading up to the event. Please remember that 10-15 minutes a day on 4 or 5 days during the week, is far better than practicing 30 minutes on just 1 or 2 days.

• Focus on the parts that challenge you and take your time to work through them. Resist the temptation to just "play through" the song and hope those tricky spots fix themselves. We all wish they did, but they don't 😆

2. Go for the details

• Pay attention to how your music sounds and listen for dynamics, smooth playing, and balance between hands. Just say "no" to heavy left hand chords.

• Double check for pedal markings and any details that may come and go from your performance. Now it the time to make sure you are playing consistently.

3. Perform for Others

• Consider playing for friends and family to build your confidence. Each solid performance is a buildling block for more solid performances.

• Even playing for your pets can give you extra practice with a performance mindset.

4. Prepare Mentally

• Speaking of your mindset, imagine yourself performing successfully using visualization techniques. This is good for students of all ages!

• Practice some relaxation methods to help manage any "extra energy" you might have from performing. Taking deep breaths, smiling, and nodding while telling yourself you're doing great are all valid and valuable ways of preparing for your success!

5. Dress Rehearsal

• Choose your outfit in advance for Guild so you feel comfortable and confident.

• Try rehearsing in the clothes you plan to wear to see how they feel. This helps avoid uncomfortable surprises.

6. Enjoy the Experience

• Remember to have fun and enjoy the chance to showcase your hard work. Your teacher is excited to have the opportunity to help you prepare for this special event and celebrate your success with you in July!

• Know you are not alone in any of the feelings you may be having (good or not so good, and this is true for parents, kids and adult participants). In our music community there are many teachers and students working on ironing out challenging spots together, and making songs sparkle. And parents, you are giving your children a gift by supporting their Piano Guild Auditions. More on that in a future post.

By following these friendly tips, you can prepare for the Piano Guild in a way that feels good, minimizes stress, and allows you to shine. Wishing you all the best! We've got this!