Question Regarding Practice

[Rizzo]

As a beginner who has progressed to a beginner intermediate level, I am working on 4 different jazz piano renditions. I generally spend an hour daily practicing these pieces. In the past few weeks I seem to have encountered a roadblock. I am not seeing much progress.

With that being said, I am curious if I should be changing my practicing regime to "jump start" my progress. Please let me know if I can provide more information. I would appreciate your thoughts & recommendations. Thank you so much.

 

[happyrat1]

When you get stale on a song, it's time to mix it up with a different piece or two and come back to it a few days later.

 

[Rizzo]

Maybe so. Although I'll admit that I am not frustrated. Thanks.

 

[Rayblewit]

As Gary said,
Give yourself a break from the 4 pieces you are playing. Try another new tune or play a few regular easy ones for a day or two or even longer. When you go back to the difficult jazz pieces you will be amazed at what you you remember and you will probably progress much easier.
You know when I pick up a piece which I haven't played a few years, it always comes back to me instantly and often I play it flawlessly, such a good feeling.
Long term memory overpowers short term memory . .
R

 

[Rizzo]

Sage advice. Thank you!

 

[Skyjumper]

As a beginner who has progressed to a beginner intermediate level, I am working on 4 different jazz piano renditions. I generally spend an hour daily practicing these pieces. In the past few weeks I seem to have encountered a roadblock. I am not seeing much progress.

With that being said, I am curious if I should be changing my practicing regime to "jump start" my progress. Please let me know if I can provide more information. I would appreciate your thoughts & recommendations. Thank you so much.

Once you develop the muscle memory on a song it is time to move on to another. Go back a touch on the older ones but don't dwell. Variety is the spice of life, learn new compositions, make your own and develop your style.

 

[Bouncingogre]

Despite this being an older piece, it is worth mentioning.

Sure, by all means, work on your favourite pieces, and practice makes you play more confidently.
But set aside 25 minutes of your practice. Put the music aside and let your creative side shine through.

You already know some chords by now. You know what sort of styles or rhythms you like. So just let your fingers wander over the keys.

You might just surprise yourself!

Practice is important, but if you find staleness creeping in, jazz it up. Have fun! Make your own sounds work for you.