Practice Does Not Make Perfect

Almost everyone knows that one cannot learn how to play any instrument without practicing. However, in order for practice to be beneficial, it must be accurate practice. Just because a child can play correctly in the lesson does not mean they will remember how to play correctly during practice. Karin’s childhood Suzuki instructor often stated,  “Practice does not make perfect; practice makes permanent. Only perfect practice makes perfect.” Parental supervision of practice is especially vital in order for practice to help the student improve his/her skill. Unsupervised practiced can actually be counterproductive, because the student may have to unlearn poor habits and relearn the skills, resulting in frustration of the student and the parents.