What age should you start music lessons for your child
As parents, you want to ensure
that your child receives the most benefit of learning music at a young age. This
poses the question as to how young should your child begin to participate in
music lessons?
Although music teachers would
encourage to start at a young age, there is no specific age which your child
should start music lessons. Generally, children can start learning certain types
of instruments at the age of 3. It is important however, to understand the
signals of when your child is ready and to encourage them to do so.
One of the first signals is if
your child shows an interest in learning a musical instrument. This can be seen
by the discussions you have, if your child enjoys music, the types of activities
your child is already enjoying, if your child already plays an instrument or the
classes that your child excels in school.
Ensuring that you child is
mentally capable of the expectations of learning music is also important. This
means being able to concentrate for a long duration of time without losing focus
or interest and the patience and discipline to practice on a regular basis.
For certain types of
instruments, the physic of your child also is a factor. Children may be able to
begin to learn piano at a young age but will not be able to learn the tenor
saxophone or trombone until they are over the age of 6.
Children who currently have
enough time to dedicate to learning a musical instrument should also be
encouraged to start. This includes children who are not actively involved in
other after school activities or would like a hobby that will allow them to
learn and grow.
Taking your child to a class is
the next step that will confirm whether they are ready to participate in music
lessons long term. Trialing a few lessons will help you determine whether they
are ready or not.