How Young Is Too Young – Starting At The Right Age
When adults begin instrument lessons there are no concerns about focus or determination, but for children, starting at the right age is key to their successful learning. “The Sooner The Better” theory often backfires and can have a negative effect on the child. Children may become overwhelmed, frustrated and stop wanting to come for lessons. Starting at the right age will help ensure enjoyment, focus and a positive experience. The following are guidelines that will help you determine the optimal age for your child to start taking music lessons.
Piano/Keyboard – We recommend beginning no earlier than age 5. Each child has a different focus and retention of material at this age, so speak with one of our teachers to help determine if your child is ready. Whenever your child decides to begin lessons, he/she will find the piano a fun and rewarding instrument.
Guitar (Acoustic or Electric) – 8 years old is a good age to start guitar lessons, however it is never too late to begin this instrument. Playing the guitar takes strength in the fingertips in order to press the guitar strings hard enough to produce correct sound. Before the age of 8 children have small hands and may find playing the guitar uncomfortable or frustrating.
Voice – 12 is the age voice experts suggest to begin vocal coaching. Due to the physical nature of voice lessons (proper breathing techniques, development of the vocal chords and lung capacity), young children are not ready for the rigors of vocal training. Before the age of 12, we offer a chorus class that teaches children how to use their voices properly in a fun, relaxed environment.
Group Classes vs. Private Lessons
When signing up for music or voice lessons, choosing the correct class format can make the difference between success and failure. Group classes work well for chorus singing, music theory or orchestra. Working as a group is a unique musical skill that can only be taught in a group class setting. However, when learning a specific instrument or teaching voice, private lessons allow for the greatest success in the quickest time.
Class Location
Children learn music best when the learning location is free of distractions. In a music school environment a student cannot be distracted by television, pets, ringing phones, siblings or the rhythms of home life. A half hour of lesson time per week at a professional music school location can produce better results then an ‘at home lesson’, since the only focus during lesson time is learning music.
Make Practicing Easier
As with anything, practice makes perfect. Difficulties between parents and music students can arise when there is not a system set up at home for practicing. Here are some ways to make practicing fun and stress free:
Time – Set the same time everyday to practice, so it becomes part of your child’s daily routine.
Repetition – For children 20-30 minutes can seem like eternity. Instead of setting a time frame, try asking your child to repeat their music piece 4 times or their scales 5 times. To a child, this gives a more manageable practice goal.
Rewards – To make practice fun for your child, you may find encouragement, such as praise, stickers or small rewards like hot chocolate or a hug, can go a long way.
Use Recognized Teaching Materials With a Trained Professional
Our University trained teachers use excellent teaching books to help you or your child learn with the best possible results. Our teachers will guide you to a music book that will be appropriate for your level and learning style. For example, a 5 year old beginner piano student would learn differently than a beginner adult or experienced teenager. A teenage vocal student will enjoy different music styles than an adult. These books ensure that no important part of learning is inadvertently left out. Our library has been researched and is continually upgraded to make learning easier.
Have Fun! Giving the gift of music will last a lifetime. Remember the important part of music lessons is to enjoy the journey.