1.Join online savings groups. There are hundreds of forums online that connect you with other people wanting to save money. They have links to free printable coupons, sales circulars, and consumer insight that save you time. Most online groups to not charge for a free sharing of information among members. Often you can connect with members who shop the same stores that you shop to find unadvertised specials.
2.Start clipping coupons. Yes, coupons are back. Manufacturers are issuing more coupons as the economy declines. They want to keep consumers using their products and keep their brands top of mind. You won't find your grandma's coupons today. Almost every coupon issued is good for a buck. A fist full of $1 coupons can save you an easy $30 at the grocery store this week.
3.Use store coupons. Many clothing store chains have special coupons that are good for slow store hours. Many are for early morning or late evenings during weekend hours so that working consumers can take advantage of the discounts as well. Check the circular rack when entering any store. They often stock their printed specials, and any special in store coupons at the front of the store.
4.Dont buy it! If you think you want something, give yourself time to decide if you have to have it or not. If you wait 24 hours and still want an item, then buy it. Chances are you will forget all about that cute pink blouse as the day passes.
5.Dont eat out. You can save from $50-$100 per week by packing your lunch or fixing dinner at home. There are some excellent websites listing free budget meals. If you must eat out, take a coupon. Last week, Sunday papers carried more than 20 lunch coupons alone for frugal employees.
6.Use online bill paying to save money on postage. Almost all banks and utilities have free online payment options.
7.Start canceling any of the subscriptions you no longer use. We often get into habits and don't realize that we are still spending money on magazines, extra television channels or gym memberships.
8.Review your cellular telephone plan. Most companies have an offer to switch providers that saves you money. IF you havent switched in awhile, you could be saving up to $30 per month by reviewing your existing cell phone plan.
9.Park the car. If you really dont have to make an extra trip-DONT. We are conditioned to jumping in the car and running errands. Group your shopping trips and errands together all on one day. It will save both time and money.
10.Keep a list of all the items or services over $10 you need to buy this week. Check the list twice, if you really need it, check online to see if the manufacturer is offering any type of discount or coupon before purchasing. Most consumers do not stop to think about a $10 purchase these days. But these add up quickly.
1. Go With The Flow. Sometimes it's easier to practice piano lessons when they reflect the mood that we're in. If it's a sunny day outside, play some music that complements the weather. If you're excited about a raise at work or a high grade at school, play some music that complements your achievement. Even if you're feeling a bit blue, complementary music may prove to be therapeutic and help you cope with whatever has got you down. On the flip side, much of what's "fun" is creative, so turn the tables and go against the current atmosphere if you dare. Care to brighten up a stormy night outside? Play some of the most cheerful music you can find!
2. Play music for your lover. Many of the songs we have today were written for someone else. In fact, love is the theme among a lot of the music we play even when there aren't any accompanying lyrics. So see how your performance improves by thinking of a lost love, your current lover, or even your fantasy lover while playing. If you don't notice any significant improvement, you'll have to admit it was fun thinking about it!
3. Try different kinds of music. Get out of a rut you're in by playing music you're not familiar with. As challenging as that idea may be, lively pieces can make practice fun as long as you relax with it. Try some pop music from the 50s or some cool R & B tunes from the early 60s. A little 'old school' Diana Ross or Aretha Franklin is often enough to make anything fun!
4. Expose yourself to foreign music. Chances are you'll find some of the most unique pieces of music originating outside of the United States. For whatever reason, there just isn't enough of it infiltrating into mainstream radio. But that just kind of makes it more special, doesn't it? Wrap your ears around some of this stuff and you'll learn how other cultures exploit the unique sounds of the piano. Perhaps you'll pick up a few new techniques along the way.
5. Play something else. See how well you can adapt other instruments into a simulated piano just by pressing specific parts of it. The electronic piano is an obvious choice, but why not get crazy and run your fingers across the keyboard you're sitting behind for example. A windowsill? A coffee table? Your chosen victims may not produce any sound, but it's this very lack of pitch that will focus your thoughts on finger placement. Go figure!
6. Play with a partner. Are two pianists better than one? Well in all honesty, it depends on how well they get along! If you can find a partner who complements your playing style, then congratulations -- the two of you shall make beautiful music together. Literally. If not, consider playing alongside a violinist, tuba player, or someone who can sing really well. Remember that the key behind this strategy is to have fun with everything from choosing music all the way to entertaining a small crowd or two.
7. Play along with the songs that you hear. This strategy could be more challenging than fun, but if approached with the right mindset, you just might find yourself giggling all while you learn new things at the same time. If you're a little bored with your current collection of CD's, try playing along with songs on the radio or TV. You'll find the jingles that accompany TV commercials especially entertaining.
8. Write your own music. This is another challenging way to practice the piano -- but it will at least strengthen your skills. Just don't try to write a masterpiece in one day.
9. Improvise when you've mastered a song. Instead of writing your own music from scratch, try improving the music that already exists with a little improv. Take a somber piece and attempt to liven it with a few interesting runs. Or do the exact opposite with a happy piece. Insert some questionable yet interesting and thought-provoking pauses into a piece where there ought not be any. In other words, have fun!
10. Switch the genre. What would a Chopin piece sound like in a gospel church? How about a Gershwin piece? What if you were to play it with an MC Hammer twist? Try changing the rhythm of a song and see what you get. A lot of the creative pieces we have are the result of mixing different elements of music together into one.
What else can you add to this list of top 10 ways to make piano lessons fun?
Both Leann Moyers & Brian Shelton are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Leann Moyers has sinced written about articles on various topics from Personal Finance, Food And Drink and Personal Finance. LeAnn Moyers helps families save hundreds of dollars on their groceries each week with America Loves Coupons. This free coupon delivery service saves consumers an average of 35% each week on standard grocery and food purchases.. Leann Moyers's top article generates over 5400 views. to your Favourites.
Brian Shelton has sinced written about articles on various topics from Personal Finance, Real Estate and Sell Home. Claim your eBook entitled, "The Secrets To Playing Piano in Less Time Than You Ever Thought Possible!" plus our jam-packed eZine filled with. Brian Shelton's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.