One of the most common questions piano teachers get asked is when to start piano lessons.
There's not a black-and-white answer. If you are a parent, here are some things to consider as you explore piano lessons for your child.
When to start piano lessons: the piano method matters!
If the teacher you are considering teaches traditional or classical piano method, your child will be learning to play as he or she learns to read music. It all happens together.
I find that with traditional methods, I had more success (and kids had more fun!) when I began at age 5 or above. One of the primary reasons is that by age 5, children have a solid knowledge of numbers and letters, which is necessary for learning notes, rhythms, and counting.
Concentration and accomplishing small goals is also easier when they are a little bit older. It's more satisfying for them because they are more able to connect practicing with success... they can see that the songs they play are the result of the learning they did.
Alternative piano methods, like Simply Music and Suzuki, can be wonderful for younger children. Both delay music reading to give young players a chance to learn to make music independent of reading. Suzuki is based in classical repertoire, while Simply Music encompasses a wide range of repertoire including jazz, blues, and accompanying (chord method).
Methods like Simply Music are easier for younger children because at the beginning, the focus is on playing and building a relationship with the piano. Reading music comes later in the process, after the student develops a nice repertoire of music - like a child learns to read after they can speak. I had much more success with younger students after I switched methods.
When to start piano lessons: know your child!
Some children express an interest in music early on. Some kids are high energy and would rather be outside playing. Some gravitate toward physical, high-energy activities, while some tend toward reading and imaginary play.
In deciding when to start piano lessons, it's important to consider your child. High-energy, physical kids tend to be unhappy sitting at a piano bench for 30 minutes if they are too young... that's a long time for all that energy to be still! Other music programs that involve movement (like KinderMusic) would be a terrific option for early music learning.
On the other hand, if you don't mind your piano teacher making movement part of the lesson, there are plenty of activities for rhythm and music appreciation that can be part of your child's lesson. Littler students love playing games that help them learn finger numbers, how to hear beats in music (rhythm), and the notes on the keyboard.
When to start piano lessons: know your expectations.
Chances are, you have some idea in your head of what piano lessons will be like for your child. It's important to discuss this with potential teachers so that you are able to find the teacher and method that fit both your expectations and your child's personality and learning style.
Do you want 30 minutes of straight piano instruction, or are other music learning activities OK?
Do you want to take part in the lesson with your child?
Are you expecting recitals and other performances regularly?
Are you prepared to help teach your child to practice (she won't always want to)?
Are you willing to make lessons a priority (too many cancellations makes learning more difficult)?
When I first started teaching, I had some conversations with parents who were unhappy with the format of the lessons (especially for younger children). They were expecting 30 minutes at the piano - no games, no music appreciation, no rhythm activities. I built all these things into my lessons even when I was teaching with traditional methods.
I learned very quickly that it was important to not only meet the child and discover how he learns best, but also to find out what the parents expected for their lesson tuition. Ask yourself these questions, and be honest! It's important that you and your child are both happy.
When to start piano lessons is really an individual choice for every family. Whatever age you decide to start, find the best teacher you can who is experienced with young children! And know that it's OK if, after a few lessons, you start to realize the timing, or the teacher, isn't right.
Piano lessons need to be full of joy and success to build a lifelong love of music for your child!
Kimberly Luker is a piano teacher and mom who believes that everyone is deeply and naturally musical including you and your children! Visit her website, [http://www.you-can-play-piano.com], for more great information on when to start piano lessons [http://www.you-can-play-piano.com/when-to-start-piano-lessons.html] and all kinds of fun, friendly piano practice tips.
Article Source: When to Start Piano Lessons?
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