Proactive Things to Do Before Your Music Lesson

Music Lessons
Practice Tips
Music Education
Get the most out of your music lessons by preparing like a pro. This guide covers simple, proactive steps anyone can take—before in-person or virtual lessons—to boost focus, reduce stress, and improve progress.
Author

Melody Map

Proactive Things to Do Before Your Music Lesson

Whether you’re taking lessons online or in person, preparing ahead of time can turn a good music lesson into a great one. These tips apply to students of all ages and skill levels—because showing up prepared helps you stay focused, make faster progress, and enjoy the journey.

Let’s break down the most important things to do before your next music lesson.

1. Set Up Your Practice or Lesson Space

Before the lesson begins, make sure your environment supports your success:

  • Instrument ready: Tuned and cleaned
  • Comfortable chair or bench: With good posture support
  • Good lighting: So you can clearly see sheet music and your instrument
  • Minimal distractions: Silence phones, close unused tabs/apps
  • Headphones and mic (if virtual): For better audio quality

2. Review Last Week’s Materials

Refresh your memory on what you covered last time:

  • Re-read any notes or practice assignments from your instructor
  • Go over key passages of music or exercises you struggled with
  • Listen to any reference tracks or recordings (if provided)

This shows your teacher that you’ve been practicing—and helps you ask more informed questions.

3. Write Down Questions or Notes

As you practice throughout the week, keep a running list of things like:

  • “What does this rhythm marking mean?”
  • “I’m struggling with this chord change.”
  • “How can I get my tone to sound warmer?”

Bringing specific questions leads to more useful and tailored instruction.

4. Arrive Early & Mentally Present

Whether you’re logging into Zoom or driving to your teacher’s studio:

  • Be ready 5–10 minutes early
  • Take a few deep breaths to clear your mind
  • Wash your hands, especially before touching a piano, strings, or reeds
  • Mentally shift into “practice mode” so you’re calm and focused

Lesson Prep Checklist

Task Why It Helps Tips or Tools
Tune your instrument Saves time and avoids bad habits Use a tuner app or built-in device
Review last lesson Reinforces material and builds confidence Skim notes or replay recordings
Practice problem areas Shows initiative and focuses your time Highlight tricky sections
Write questions Promotes clarity and personalized guidance Use a notebook or practice app
Prepare your space Reduces stress and keeps you focused Quiet room, music stand, good lighting
Hydrate & stretch Keeps body relaxed and supports vocalists too Drink water, stretch fingers/wrists

Virtual Lesson-Specific Prep

If you’re learning online, take these extra steps:

  • Charge your device and check your internet connection
  • Test mic and camera at least 5 minutes before
  • Have sheet music and files open or printed
  • Frame your camera so your hands/instrument are visible

Bonus: Bring a Growth Mindset

Being proactive is more than just logistics—it’s also about attitude:

  • Be open to feedback
  • Don’t worry about mistakes—they’re part of learning
  • Celebrate small wins and effort, not just perfection

“Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally. It comes from what you do consistently.”

✅ Summary Checklist

Here’s a quick reference before your next lesson:

🎵 Final Thoughts

A little prep goes a long way. By showing up organized, focused, and ready to learn, you’ll get far more value out of every minute with your instructor. Plus, your confidence and motivation will grow along the way.

Melody Map is here to help you succeed—before, during, and after your lessons.

🎶 Ready to level up with a teacher who supports your growth?
👉 Find your match at Melody Map →