As we all navigate these heavy times with many of us isolated at home, finding activities to keep our days constructive and upbeat can be a challenge. Luckily, as musicians, this time can be a good opportunity to play, develop our skills, and also relax. 

Have more time on your hands recently? Here are five ways to stay creative and work on music at home. 

1. Block out time to work on music every day 
Many of us are no longer following our typical day-to-day schedules. Whether you're working from home, watching your kids — or both! — blocking out your day can be an excellent way to stay productive and ensure things get done. While you're scheduling time to work, eat or relax, include some daily practice with your instrument, too. It's a great escape. 

2. Connect with friends, family or other musicians — virtually 

While we may not be able to enjoy the company of our family and friends physically, technology can help us to stay connected. This is a perfect time to FaceTime your loved ones and play them some music to brighten their day. Or, ring up a fellow musician buddy to trade tips and skills. 

3. Tackle something new that challenges you

If you've been putting off learning a particular lesson or technique, now is the time to buckle down, dig deep and show yourself that you're capable of mastering it. ArtistWorks students from all levels have developed their musicianship dramatically using our online music lessons, and sometimes all it takes is a little bit of time. Luckily, that's one resource that many of us have at this current moment. Use it! 

4. Write a song for hand washing

As you surely know by now, washing your hands is one of the best ways to stay healthy. Experts recommend scrubbing down for at least 20 seconds, or about the time it takes to sing the happy birthday song twice. Of course, singing yourself happy birthday multiple times a day gets old quickly. So we pose a challenge — write your own!

5. Play the music that comforts you

Music has the power to soothe during chaotic times. Whether it's reminiscing with the tunes you grew up on, playing spiritual pieces, or something else entirely, let the music ground you and help you make sense of the challenges that we are all facing. 

We want your time at home to be as enjoyable as possible, so throughout this crisis we are making our lessons more affordable. Use the promo code BETTER which allows you to save $80 on most 1 year plans and "get better" at home with online music lessons.

Our goal, as always, is to keep players connected to each other and their music. Stay safe, stay healthy, and keep playing!