How to begin your practice session

It’s essential to plan practice sessions carefully to ensure progress. But what’s the best way to start? First, take a few moments to check in with your body before you even think about touching the keys. There are three main elements to consider: Are you sitting properly? Do you have any tense muscles? How are you breathing?

Let’s take a closer look at these three points.

Are you sitting properly?

It’s important to sit at the correct height and distance from the piano, and this depends on your physical dimensions. You need enough space in front of you to move your hands and arms easily, and to reach the pedals comfortably. Your weight should be evenly distributed between your sit bones (the lower part of the pelvis, also known as the ischial tuberosity) and your feet should be properly grounded. We’ve all heard the expression “sit up straight,” but this isn’t always a helpful image; instead, think about sitting up ‘tall.’ Next, pay attention to your shoulders—are they hunched or too far forward? Finally, check in with your head and neck. Is your head jutting forward (a common issue in the age of mobile devices)?

Do you have any tense muscles?

Regardless of the length of your practice session, it’s essential to release any tension in your muscles before you begin. The neck and shoulders are common trouble spots, but it’s also important to loosen up your arms, wrists, and hands. Consider taking an exercise class or practicing a body awareness discipline like the Alexander Technique, Feldenkrais, Yoga, Tai Chi, or Pilates. These practices can help you become more aware of muscle tension and how to release it.

How are you breathing?

Breathing is something we do unconsciously most of the time, but when did you last focus solely on taking deep breaths? Taking a moment to do this can help you calm down and focus. While pianists don’t need to breathe in order to produce sound from the instrument, we do need to learn to breathe with the music. Bringing your awareness to your breath will not only enhance your well-being, but it will also improve focus and concentration, helping you breathe naturally with the phrases in your pieces.

Taking the time to check in with how you’re feeling and how well your body is aligned will help you start your practice session in the best possible way.