Time For A Musical Journey?
Whether considering music lessons for a child or looking to fulfill your own musical dream, Flora Lim helps you take the first steps.
Is there a right time?
First, consider whether your child is ready and can focus on lessons and home practice. Also, if your child already has many after-school activities, it might be better to wait until the schedule eases up. Physical development is another consideration. String instruments, for example, require suppleness, while wind instruments require breath control.
Which instrument?
Listen to lots of music to discover which instrument appeals to you or your child. The greater our affinity with an instrument, the more likely we are to devote the time and effort to master it. Height, hand size and lip thickness are also factors. Under-fives should be introduced to music less formally. Sing with your children, take them to concerts and play music that stimulates the imagination; for example, Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf or Saint-Saens’ Carnival of the Animals. Play-based learning encourages creativity and confidence while building musical skills. Well-planned lessons develop musical expression, co-ordination, rhythm and pitch awareness, as well as listening skills.
Finding a teacher
Referrals from friends and family are helpful, as are the teacher’s educational background and experience. Teacher/student rapport is crucial. Visit the studio to discuss your musical goals. Ideally, this will be a long-term relationship based on trust, mutual respect and inspiration.
Patience really is a virtue
Patience is essential on the part of student, parent and teacher. The home environment should promote happy, constructive practising and verbal encouragement. A quiet place with no distractions and regular practice times are essential. Celebrate each step along the way.
Can you afford it?
Of course, costs are involved and as with most things, you get what you pay for. Teachers charge different fees, while extra costs may include the rental or purchase of an instrument, plus books, recordings and instrument maintenance.
Ready to begin?
Music provides a unique lifelong journey of discovery, satisfaction and fulfillment that enriches our lives. Take that first step and discover for yourself the riches that music offers.
Flora Lim, Mus. Bac. Perf., is a piano and flute specialist at The Flute Studio in Markham Village. For more information, visit www.theflutestudio.ca
2600 John Street, Unit 207, Markham, ON L3R 3W3 T: 905.475.5222 F: 905.475.6369
