Monday, January 1, 2024 by Becky Brouwer | Goal Setting

I love the beginning of a new year! Although, you can certainly set goals and achieve them at any time of the year, there is something about a new start to a new year that is inspiring. By setting intentional and rewarding goals, writing them down, tracking them, and having someone to report to consistently about your goals, you will make faster progress on your journey to reaching your peak performance potential.  Let’s dive into crafting goals tailored just for you and harnessing the tools available at Peak Music Academy.

Setting Personalized Goals: 

Your musical journey is unique, and so should be your goals. Instead of generic resolutions, let’s craft objectives that resonate with your aspirations. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned player, the key is to make your goals a true reflection of what you want to achieve.

We've all heard about SMART goals. When thinking about your musical goals for 2024, be sure to be specific. Locke and Latham added that goals should be challenging, not too complex, or overwhelming. 

• Specific and Clear - I will complete Level 10 Royal Conservatory of Music exams
• Measurable - with a score of 85 or higher
• Achievable - by practicing at least 1 hour every day
• Relevant - in order to become a more confident performer on the piano
• Time-bound - in the May 2025 exams.

Accountability:

1. Weekly Lessons with a qualified and dedicated teacher, provides weekly accountability and motivation to continue with your goal.
2. Better Practice App is your at home tutor to remind you what to practice and how you should be practicing. Utilizing this tool will assist you in being more efficient in your practicing. Please use this tool.
3. Peak Certifications are available on a personalized spreadsheet to track your progress through Peak Theory Objectives, Peery Foundations in Technique, Trailblazers, Trekkers and Mountaineers programs. Use these programs to stay on track. These can provide some great ideas for goals too!

Suggested Goals for 2024:

1. Technique Mastery: Level up your Technique Cycle or finish the Peak Training Program with Peery Technique.
2. Repertoire Exploration: Expand your musical horizons by setting a goal to learn pieces from different genres or time periods and perform them in a private recital or the Peak Winter Recital
3. Theory Proficiency: Complete all of the challenges within a level of the Peak Theory Objectives within the year.
4. Performance Confidence: Boost your confidence by setting a goal to perform regularly. Whether it’s recording yourself or participating in recitals through Peak Music Academy, sharing your music adds a valuable dimension to your progress.

Success Tips:

1. Consistency is Key: Set a realistic practice schedule and stick to it. Consistent, focused practice yields remarkable results.
2. Utilize Feedback: Take advantage of the personalized feedback available through Peak Music Academy. Embrace constructive critiques as stepping stones to improvement.
3. Celebrate Milestones: Break down larger goals into smaller milestones. Celebrate these achievements along the way to stay motivated.
4. Stay Connected: Engage with the Peak Music Academy community. Share your progress, ask questions, and draw inspiration from fellow musicians. You can share recordings with the whole Academy on Better Practice App and chat with the teacher as well.

As we step into 2024, let’s make it a year of musical breakthroughs. Your goals are not just aspirations; they’re the stepping stones to the pianist you’re becoming. Together, let’s embrace the journey, leverage the technology at our fingertips, and make this year a crescendo of musical achievements. Cheers to your musical odyssey with Peak Music Academy!