How many pieces should I try to learn at one time?

by Dewayne
(Ft Lauderdale Fla USA)

Hi, I was just wondering how many pieces of music should I practice at one time?

I usually just pick like 2 or 3 pieces that I want to learn and just work on them all thru my practice sessions. Other times I just stick with one.

I am going to be getting an instructor real soon, but I have been learning some things on my on right now. your website is great, by the way!!

It has helped me out a lot. I just wanted to know if I should just stick with one piece of music until I can play it PERFECTLY, or should I try to learn multiple pieces at the same time. Your feed back will be greatly appreciated. Thank You.

Hi Dewayne,

I think you've got it just about right! There's no sense in trying to play multiple pieces if you're not getting anywhere. Just limiting the pieces to 2 (or 3 max) allows you to focus your attention and improve. If you've got too many pieces you start to feel pressured and may be tempted to give up.

In terms of getting it "perfect" I wouldn't worry too much. Rather, if you keep that piece in your repertoire, you'll notice over the months that it can be improved. Then if you "drop" that piece for a while and come back to it later with "fresh eyes" so to speak, you'll notice even more things about it and improve even further.

I don't think anyone, even the professionals, ever become "perfect". In my humble opinion, anyone that deems themselves perfect are the most in need of improvement. There's just always something you can do to improve, it never stops - luckily or we'd be bored real soon :))

I hope this helps.

Kind regards,
Trevor M.