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Use different patterns as a practice technique for problem solving a difficult passage. Here are some patterns to try: long short, short long, double each note, play each note of the passage the same length, play the passage at a very slow tempo, work the tempo up from slow to fast in intervals.

Quality practice is similar to doing a puzzle. Put it together and tear it apart. Put it back together and tear it apart.

Practice can be frustrating at times because you are working on your weaknesses to make them stronger. You may need to take breaks throughout practice to stay focused.

Practice on a consistent schedule. Regular practice builds fine motor skills needed to play a stringed instrument.

Do not practice mistakes! Practice pieces slowly and carefully and then gradually increase the tempo while still focusing on accuracy.

Keep your instrument out where it is easy to access for practice.

Keep track of your mistakes during practice, so you can fix them.

When you are practicing for a performance and already know your piece really well, try playing through your piece a few times while watching TV. It will give you the feeling of being distracted while you are playing which is the closest way to emulate going into autopilot when you are nervous and playing your piece in a performance.

When you are practicing for a performance, play your piece for groups of friends and family to see how you respond to being nervous.

Warm-up for a practice session by playing something you know really well. It will get your body in gear and start your practice session off in a positive way.