Isobel Daws, the critically acclaimed professional trombonist and educator has launched a new guide to help musicians develop more effective, intentional and sustainable approaches to practice.

'Practice with focus' has grown from her own personal experiences as well as conversations with students.

Isobel recognised that many lacked a clear structure to their practice sessions and were unsure which methods worked best for them leading to a lack of meaningful progress.

Designed to help

Speaking to 4BR Isobel said: "I wanted to create a guide designed to help musicians take ownership of their practice, understand how they learn and develop greater independence.

Of course, every musician learns differently and an approach that works for one person may not work for another. However, 'practice with focus' encourages musicians to experiment with different approaches, reflect on their experiences and discover what works best for them."

Flexible structure

She added: "Rather than prescribing a rigid method, it provides a flexible structure that can be adapted to individual needs, goals and routines. The aim is to help musicians become more intentional, motivated and independent learners, developing a healthier and more positive relationship with practice along the way."

The six-month 'Practice to focus' schedule features 6 monthly planning pages and 182 daily practice planning pages and is designed to be used flexibly, allowing each musician to make it their own.

Musicians can return to it every six months, continuing to develop their practice habits as their musical needs and ambitions evolve.

Better use of practice time

Isobel added: "By identifying what they want to improve and why, players can make better use of their practice time. Instead of simply playing through pieces, they learn to approach challenges with intention and explore practical strategies for overcoming them.

This encourages responsibility for personal learning; recognising which methods work best for them, making informed decisions about practice and developing the confidence to work independently."

By identifying what they want to improve and why, players can make better use of their practice timeIsobel Daws

Personal experience

Isobel told 4BR that by recording goals, reflections and achievements, musicians will be able to recognise improvements that might otherwise go unnoticed — encouraging a consideration of wellbeing and mindset as well as supporting a more balanced and sustainable approach to musical development.

"Having experienced periods of low motivation myself, structure has played an important role helping me stay focused and make progress. Ultimately, the aim is not simply to help players practise more, but to help them understand how to practise better."

Further information

For further information go to: www.practicewithfocus.com