Guitar Space: NE Philadelphia
The perfect practice space
Why should you create your own practice space? Having your own practice space can make it easier for you to accomplish your practice goals. Habits are easier to form when the environment used to create them is consistent and goal supportive. It’s easier to practice consistently when you’ve created a small space for yourself to practice in. Your environment supports your desired outcome.
For a guitar player, the ideal practice space is going to vary. Some players practice while sitting on the edge of their bed. Others insist on practicing in a dedicated soundproofed guitar shrine. The particulars of your practice space will depend on your own requirements. At the very least, you’ll want a place that is free of distractions, that supports good posture and ergonomics, and that has all the tools and materials you will need.
Choosing a place
When choosing a place to practice, consider the following:
- Soundproof – protection from distracting sounds, as well as irate neighbors or housemates
- Convenience – in a location that is easily accessible
- Comfort – an environment that supports good posture and hopefully that has a tolerable temperature
- Distraction-free – an environment that supports concentration during the practice session
If you live in a small space, your choices might be limited. But it is still a good idea to carve out a corner for yourself to practice in. This can help enforce the standards you have set for your daily amount of practice time. It can also help you to stay focused on practice if you are not in an area that has other uses. It is important to consider how the time of day might affect your practice. If you have neighbors who might complain about the noise, see if you can arrange a practice time with them.
If you have access to more space, or life in a house, you might be lucky enough to be able to create a dedicated area, or an entire room. Walk-in closets make wonderful practice caves. If there is no place for you to practice at home, you still have options. You can use a silent guitar and sit in any chair, so long as your practice sessions aren’t long. You might also be able to practice somewhere in your place of employment or school. Get creative.
Tools and materials for your practice space
At minimum, your practice space should have:
- A metronome
- A guitar stand
- A music stand
- Any learning materials you are working with
- A pencil and some tab paper
- If sitting, a chair suitable for guitar (such as a simple folding chair)
- If standing, a guitar strap
Set up your guitar practice area and start reaping the rewards. Your practice space will help you to get in the habit of practicing regularly, practicing seriously, and practicing effectively. If you are considering taking lessons to better acquaint yourself with the guitar and are in the Philadelphia area, consider the David Joel Guitar Studio. David works one on one with his students so that you are receiving the best attention and are learning at a pace that works just for you.