Keep Up With Music Practice During a Busy Summer

Summer break is something every student looks forward to! It's a time to relax, recharge, and enjoy a much-needed break from school routines. However, it can also be a time of unexpected backsliding for young musicians if regular music practice gets completely set aside.

At Midwest Conservatory of Music, we believe summer is a fantastic opportunity to nurture a lifelong love of music, without the pressure. With just a few simple adjustments, students can stay connected to their instrument and return in the fall feeling inspired and even more confident in their skills.

1. Keep Practice Short, But Consistent

Short, focused practice sessions can be effective, especially during a busy summer. A 10–15 minute session a few days a week can help keep finger strength, muscle memory, and reading skills intact.

Try setting a small summer routine: play a scale or warm-up after breakfast, review a piece right before bed, or squeeze in a short practice right after a swim or camp day.

2. Make Music Travel-Friendly

Going on vacation or spending time away from home? Bring your music with you! If your instrument isn’t portable, you can stay engaged by:

• Listening to your lesson pieces or classical favorites on a playlist

• Practicing sight reading and tap the rhythm

• If your instrument is too big to travel with, arrange to rent one at your destination

Music is a universal language. You might even discover new rhythms and styles on your travels that inspire fresh creativity!

3. Set a Summer Music Goal

Summer is a great time to set a personal music goal that’s fun and meaningful while feeling like a challenge but not a chore. Some ideas:

• Learn a favorite pop song or movie theme

• Compose a short piece of your own

• Record a performance to send to friends or family

• Memorize a piece for fun

A clear, achievable goal helps students stay motivated and gives them something to celebrate before school starts again.

4. Play for the Joy of It

One of the best things about summer music is that it's less about "what you have to play" and more about "what you want to play." Encourage students to explore different genres or revisit favorite pieces. Want to try playing by ear? Go for it. Always wanted to sing and play at the same time? Summer’s the time to experiment!

Music becomes more meaningful when students connect with it on their terms, and those connections often happen when the pressure is off.

5. Stay Inspired

Even if practice takes a back seat for a few days (or weeks), keeping music in your life matters. Attend a live concert in the park, discover new artists online, or watch videos of amazing performances. You might even be surprised how much inspiration can come from simply listening and observing.

Parents can help by playing background music at home, introducing new musical styles, or planning a family outing to a music event. Exposure to great music is one of the best motivators for young learners.

Final Notes

Summer doesn’t have to mean hitting pause on progress. Some of the best musical growth happens when students are relaxed, inspired, and having fun. By keeping music part of your summer rhythm, even in small, creative ways, your child can continue developing skills and passion for their instrument.

So enjoy every sunny adventure, every family trip, every lazy morning, but don’t forget to make a little room for music along the way.