tabber
6 Answers
Vinny
Best answer!
There are many music programs geared for children (make music-Suzuki method) to name a couple. Only a parent knows if their child is ready for music lessons. (not the teacher) A child is very open to instruction however, it really depends on your child's ability to focus, this is why many programs are set up as classes where the children learn about music in a controlled classroom where they can share their successes with each other. Children learn fast, before they talk they babble, before they walk they crawl, before they make music they make noise. This is why a clssroom is the best way, as they are going through the early 'noise making' step they are preparing for more serious private lessons later and you won't need to pay some PhD high fees taking your child through this phase when it can be done at a fraction of the cost in a classroom and IMO is better anyway..
'Play' is the key word here, Play piano, play violin play play play.. Ironically, we all know that play means fun but unfortunately when hiring a private teacher they must be very special because the wrong private teacher doesn't teach 'play' they teach 'work' and children would rather play than work.. Therefore, i recommend that you start children in a classroom environment and then later when they learn the rudiments of music, hire a private teacher.
Parents as a rule do not have in their mind that their child is the next Mozart or Chopin, they simply want their child to have music in their lives as it will last a lifetime and it is an asset to further academic studies as early music teaches how to learn, not only does it teach music..
Believe me, if you have the next Mozart, Scarlatti or Chopin, your child will let you know as they will never be satisfied with any teacher and/or instrument you get for them. As a parent, you just want them to learn to make music and have fun by 'Playing' music, if they turn pro, its because you taught them to have fun with it..
My source: I am a professional musician and teacher for over 40 years. I am employed by the music industry.
| 14 years ago. Rating: 4 | |
FISH-O
I looked into this...my son picks up the guitar and plonks at the piano. His music lessons will begin when he is 4 ... officially. He sings and dances now. It is so cute, you could faint. Blonde haired. blue eyed wonder child. I just love him. He probably isn't talented ... but for the fun and joy ... that boy will have music lessons. He's Canadian and so he will probably play hockey as well.
| 14 years ago. Rating: 6 | |
Bob/PKB
My kids had some Yamaha keyboard lessons when they were in preschool (ages 4/5). They all took piano lessons for several years starting at age 7, as was I. When they were in fifth grade, they began learning "band" instruments. I was in 4th grade when I started playing alto sax. One played trumpet, one the alto sax, and my middle goofy son picked trombone, "because I could make the most noise with it". The trumpet player was the best piano player and also learned French horn. They all participated in chorus, too.
I agree with ddjr....as soon as they can be cognizant of what they are doing, go for it.
| 14 years ago. Rating: 3 | |
tabber
nomdeplume
