Eric and Lisa Harrison, Harrison Music
Advice from Lisa Harrison, at Harrison Music
When should I allow my child to learn a musical instrument?
It depends on the instrument. For instance, even a child as young as three could start learning the violin, because violins are available in a wide range of sizes. If it’s a wind instrument, on the other hand, these are better physically suited to eleven years and older.
What if my child decides that they just don’t like that particular instrument?
If after several months your kid decides that they have chosen the wrong instrument, most band directors will let them switch during the first year. And if it’s a rental, you can exchange it for a different one.
What if I don’t have any background in music?
Don’t worry! It won’t be up to you to correct their technique; that’s the music instructor’s job. What you can do is give him or her lots of encouragement, and make sure they practice.
Also, if you can afford it, individual lessons in addition to group classes can really help accelerate your child’s progress.
How much should they be practicing?
For children under ten, ten to twelve minutes a day, at least five times a week is fine. For a middle school student, you should expect twenty to thirty minutes per day; a high school student, thirty to sixty minutes per day.
Some kids find it motivating to have their parents remind them. Other kids might feel they are being nagged. You have to find a good balance.
What if my kid is losing motivation?
Music should be fun! Dialogue with your child’s music instructor, and see if you can change up the material. Learning popular songs from Disney or Taylor Swift for instance, might be all it takes to get your child motivated again!
Also, some kids need to be involved in a musical group outside of school band, such as a jazz band, to help keep them interested.
Music, sports, clubs… We don’t have time for them all. How do we choose?
Sometimes you should let them pursue their passions, not just what they are best at. And if they really love playing music, let them! They will continue to grow.
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