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(From our October newsletter)
🎻 How Much Should My Child Practice? (Deep Thoughts, by Jessica) It’s the question I get asked all the time — and the truth is, there is no “right” number of minutes or days per week. Practice has to work for your family and your kid. This information is meant to compliment our mission to foster personal growth and belonging through youth-centered musical development. We help young people become better community members—music is our vehicle. Now, if your child clearly is the next Lindsey Stirling or Yo-Yo Ma, then a regiment is key (and eventually a great manager). Skip the following and go practice. In our house (yes, even with two musician parents), my boys still moan about practice. But over time, that resistance has softened. They now know what to do, how to do it, and that consistency—however imperfect—makes a real difference. For reference, my 6th grader practices about 10 minutes at a time, and my 8th grader around 20. We aim for four days a week and often hit three. Between sports, school, friends, and family life, and yes—video games—that’s what it looks like for us right now. The key isn’t how much you practice—it’s building something sustainable. Teachers’ suggestions are great guides, but every family’s rhythm is unique. Age matters, too. For children under 10, a little parental involvement goes a long way. Even if you don’t play music, you can still help:
Here’s a secret (thanks, scientists): motivation usually shows up after you start. So don’t wait for the perfect mood. Pick up the instrument, play a few notes, and let the spark return. Tiny moments of focus add up to big growth. Keep nurturing that spark!  Meet Jessica Catron, the passionate cellist, educator, and founder of Grow Music Missoula—our latest spotlight in the Rocky Mountain Women in Business Series!
What if music could be more than just performance—what if it could build confidence, spark joy, and nurture a sense of belonging? That vision is at the core of Jessica’s work as a teaching artist committed to youth-centered, community-driven music education. After years as a professional musician in L.A., Jessica followed her curiosity and calling to Montana, where she launched Grow Music in 2016. Today, her school offers strings education and mentorship with a focus on creativity, equity, and access for all. Whether through youth-led concerts, in-school programs, or the organic mentorship of older students becoming leaders, Jessica is building more than musicians—she’s building a movement. Her mission? To create a space where every young person feels seen, supported, and celebrated through music. Follow Grow Music Missoula to see how Jessica is shaping hearts and communities, one note at a time. Support Grow Music Missoula during Missoula and Bitterroot Gives. Your donation helps fund scholarships, school programs, and youth-led performances that empower young musicians across western Montana. Professional photos by KC Lostetter Photography Read her full story on our blog! https://bit.ly/44cUZvW  Why Support Grow Music? Inclusive Community: We welcome all ages and instruments, featuring diverse performances in "Grow Music Presents." Youth Empowerment: We pair young musicians with professionals, fostering growth and creating memorable experiences. Crescendo Club: We provide scholarships, a mentorship program, and weekly professional clinicians in the schools. Mental Health Benefits: Music boosts self-image, confidence, connection, and positivity. Partnerships: We collaborate with local organizations like Missoula Public Library, Clark Fork School, Sunflower Montessori, and Arts Missoula. Financial Aid: We offer individual scholarships and instrument repair assistance through the "Crescendo Club." You don't have to wait until Missoula Gives! Use the link below to:
This is going to be awesome, friends!  Here's a little taste of what we will be performing, thanks to the amazing Danish String Quartet for providing their arrangements.
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musings from
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