If your goal is to EXCEL, 
don't just practice, practice WELL.

Practice, practice, practice!  Practicing is very important homework for instrumental music.  Just like we spend time practicing math and spelling we must also spend time practicing our instruments in order to learn the language of music!  Playing a band instrument involves using many different muscles.  When we practice, these muscles begin to get stronger and playing our instrument becomes easier.  We exercise and condition our muscles just like an athlete does.

Try to set a specific time and place for practicing.  This will develop a good routine!