Day 3

Deck the Halls (and Your Practice Space!)

Time for a little decluttering

Have you looked at your practice area lately? I mean really looked at it? 🎶

I’ll be the first to admit — I’m not always the tidiest musician. There’s often a pile of music I meant to file away, a few pencils scattered about, and somehow my phone always ends up on the piano (even though I swore it wouldn’t!).

But here’s what I’ve learned: clear space, clear mind.
And as we head deeper into December — a month filled with tinsel, to-do lists, and twinkling lights — creating a calm, organised practice area can be your own little musical sanctuary amid the festive chaos. ✨

I remember examining at Bechstein’s showroom in Manchester — walking into that immaculate space with gleaming pianos and perfect lighting, I felt inspired before I even played a note.

Now, you don’t need showroom perfection! But your environment shapes how you feel before you even touch your instrument.

Think about hotel rooms for a moment. Why do they feel so peaceful?
They’re clutter-free. Everything has its place. When the space around you is calm, your mind follows suit — and focus comes more easily.

Your space doesn’t have to be big or fancy. A quiet corner is enough. What matters is that it feels yours, and that it supports your musical goals instead of competing with them.

And since it’s the festive season, you might like to give it a little sparkle — but keep it simple. ✨

A single candle, a small string of fairy lights, or a tiny ornament on your piano can lift your mood without adding clutter. Let it feel peacefully festive, not busily decorated. 🎄

🕯️ Today’s Task (10 minutes max)

Set a timer for ten minutes and give your practice area a festive refresh:

✅ Remove any music you’re not currently working on
✅ Gather stray pencils, rubbers, and tools into one tidy spot
✅ Clear away any non-music items (yes, including your phone — put it in another room!)
✅ Add one thing that inspires you — a photo, a quote, a candle, or a small plant
✅ Check your lighting — can you see your music clearly?
✅ Make sure your chair or stool is at the right height

The goal isn’t perfection — it’s intention.
When you sit down to practise in your newly organised (and gently festive) space tomorrow, notice the difference. You’ll find it easier to focus, easier to start, and easier to enjoy every note you play.

Because when your space feels calm and inviting, your music will too. 🎁

Until tomorrow,
Fiona

P.S. Feeling inspired? Snap a photo of your refreshed space — seeing the transformation is incredibly motivating! 📸 Then email it over to fiona@learnmusictogether.com so that I can inspire others in the group.