Every song has its challenging sections. Here are success sequences for piano practice to help students progress.

1. Check the hand positions. Many method books have the keyboard diagram at the top of the indicating the notes and fingerings used. Looking to get a sibling or family member involved? Ask them to quiz the student on random notes or fingerings.
2. Listen to the recording or get an audio example. Hopefully, this is done during the lesson, but if the student needs a review, take a moment to listen to a recording. If necessary, slow the speed down to 75%. This establishes the rhythms and uncovers potential oversights, such as repeat signs.
3. Pedestal the hardest section. After learning the hands separately, drill down on the most difficult bars of song (looking at you, bars 7 & 8…). Once there’s momentum, play the preceding and following bars at the bad boy’s tempo. Finally, make your new frenemy the introduction so it establishes the tempo of the entire song.

The self-discipline of using these success sequences during piano (or drums, or guitar, etc…) practice contribute to the student’s progress.