🎻 Better Practice Starts Here: My Top Read & Your Best Tips

Dear Scott Cello Studio Families,

As we head into the final stretch of summer break, I wanted to share a book that’s been energizing and affirming my approach to teaching and practicing: The Science of Rapid Skill Acquisition by Peter Hollins.

📘 In this book, Hollins outlines a wide range of strategies—supported by research and learning theory—for mastering skills effectively and efficiently. What’s especially exciting to me is how many of his findings directly confirm the practice tactics and teaching methods we already use in our studio. It’s incredibly validating to see familiar ideas backed by science and learning theory!

One takeaway I think would be fun (and powerful!) to try in these final weeks of summer is Hollins’ discussion of the Learning Pyramid. According to the pyramid, students retain:

• 5% of what they learn in a lecture

• 20% from audiovisual sources

• 75% through practice

• and even more through discussion and teaching others.

The model divides learning into two categories:
🔹 Passive – lecture, reading, watching, and demonstrations
🔹 Active – discussion, hands-on practice, and teaching others

Let’s take this inspiration into our practice time—aiming not only for consistency, but creativity and ownership in each student’s learning journey. I encourage both students and parents to recall the strategic procedures we’ve already used in private lessons and group classes. Often, we’ve gone through fun, memorable activities like playing a piece with eyes closed, giving a listening quiz to a practice partner, or inserting knuckle knocks or a quick head tap between tricky phrases. These are all great examples of practicing cello with an active mindset—and of how effective learning doesn’t have to be boring.

At the same time, avoid passive repetition—repeating a task without active listening or carefully examining the quality of your movement and tone production. Always watch and listen for ringing strings and ensure your whole body remains balanced and relaxed. These small but mindful habits will transform daily practice into something truly meaningful and productive.

Parents, we’d love to hear from you—what were some of the most effective or creative practice strategies you used last year to keep things fun, consistent, and motivating at home? Share your best tips with us!

Warmly,
Shu-Yi
Scott Cello Studio