Parents are often excited to see their children develop and learn. They wish for their child to stay on track and have many more opportunities than they had when they were little. Most parents recognize that music is an important part of every child’s education, whether they become very proficient and interested in a certain instrument, or simply learn the basics, it is a great learning experience teaching discipline, a love for music and appreciation for culture. When parents are considering music lessons for children, they commonly ask what age is appropriate to begin these lessons.
The truth is that there is no one time that is right for every child. Most schools will offer some type of music class beginning at fourth or fifth grade, and this is a great way to get initial exposure. When they’re ready, though, it’s very beneficial if you can get them into private music lessons. But just when is the right time?
Parents should watch and listen to their child. If they are excelling at school, constantly learning, and incredibly interested in music or instruments, the time may be now. If you start them on music lessons when their enthusiasm for it is high, they’ll practice more and learn better. If they’re not interested at all, it may become drudgery and they won’t learn nearly as much.
Communication is also key. To be successful, your child must take music lessons are seriously as they take their schoolwork. You need to let them know that upfront. Private music lessons are expensive, both in terms of money and time. Make sure your child knows that you take it seriously enough to invest that time and money. Also teach them that music takes discipline and motivation. Your child will have to practice regularly, just like doing homework.
If you think this is the time for your son or daughter to start music lessons, it’s time to think about which instrument they should study. If they have solid understanding of music theory and can read music well after their classes at school, they should be able to play any instrument they wish. Often a child will express a strong interest in a particular instrument, which will help with the motivation. If she’s willing to consider more options, many experts recommend studying piano for at least a year before moving on to another instrument. Piano is a good instrument to start with because they can see the notes as well as hear them, and they can play multiple keys at once, helping them learn about chords and how melody and harmony interact.
Once they’ve started, you will need to help them maintain their focus even after the newness has worn off. Parents need to help their children practice consistently. If they know that you are interested in their lessons and their practice, they’ll stay motivated to keep working at it. Attend their recitals and ask their music teacher how you can help them improve. Like anything else worth learning, music takes a lot of time and effort.
As time goes by, you will need to stay observant of your child and how they are doing. If it turns out to be a huge struggle and something that they just do not enjoy at all, you may want to let them take up something else after a year or so.
The other possibility is that they absolutely love music and want to continue on. Either way, practice will sometimes be boring and they won’t want to do it. Sometimes all they need is a little praise and support to get over the hump before it becomes something that they can excel at and love.
You can find music lessons in San Diego or anywhere. Orange County music lessons can be found at this online directory.