Practice | Ignite Music Academy

What should I practice

each week?

We understand that sometimes students aren’t sure what they should be playing at home or why it matters so much. That’s why we’ve put together some simple ideas below for each instrument—things they’ve already started learning in class that can be reinforced at home.

Why is playing at home so important?

It builds muscle memory, so playing becomes easier and more natural
It grows confidence, helping them feel proud and capable
It prepares them to overcome challenges—learning that if they put in the time, they can succeed
These lessons carry far beyond music—knowing how to stick at something and see progress is a powerful skill that supports success in school, sports, and life in general

Here are some ideas to help your child stay engaged and supported at home:

Piano

Encourage your child to:

Play their chords – Practise transitions between different major and minor chords using both the right and left hand
Go over note reading – Use cue cards or apps to reinforce note names
Play songs from their lesson book – Repetition helps build fluency and confidence
Explore creatively – Try out new sounds, learn songs from YouTube or friends, or make up their own music

Drums

Drummers can:

Play rudiments – Single strokes, double strokes, and paradiddles with a metronome or backing track
Revisit beats, grooves and fills – Practise what they’ve learned in lessons, with and without music
Listen and play along – Try to figure out drum parts from favourite songs
Go over the drum notation to build fluent sight reading
Work on creativity – Create your own groove and fills

Guitar & Ukulele

At home, students can:

Work on smooth chord changes
Try different strumming patterns
Do warm-ups – Spider Song, quick-fire drills, or scale runs (they can time themselves for a fun challenge!)
Play riffs and melodies from their lesson book
Create their own songs – Combine chords, invent riffs, or try songs by ear
Listen to other players – Try learning something from a favourite guitarist on YouTube

Singing

Singers can explore:

Breathing techniques – Slow, steady breathing into the belly
Sirens – Smooth out vocal breaks and cracks
Switch between registers – Strengthen control over chest and head voice
Mirror practice – Notice posture, tension, and movement habits
Song study – Learn lyrics, melody, and breathing spots; reflect on the meaning of the song (or find their own meaning)
Explore different artists – Try out new styles and observe different vocal techniques