Practicing is the key to mastery and moving forward to more and more interesting music and musical experiences. Daily practice is best, even if it is just for 10 minutes, that way your muscles have the chance to "memorize" what is needed for quality music-making. 30 minutes per day is an ideal goal for younger students, while more practice is ideal for more advanced students. However, students should never feel like they need to miss a lesson if they have not practiced during the week. There is always something to learn! I enjoy working with students wherever they are, and will never be mad or scold students for not having practiced. This is about enjoying music, not doing chores!