
The greatest support a parent can provide is:
- provide a proper instrument for your child to learn on. Although there may be reluctance to purchase an acoustic piano for a beginning student, remember that the key to their success and the way to prevent frustration on your child’s part, is to provide them with an instrument that will support their learning and technic. A free-standing electric keyboard will serve the purpose for a few months, but the key to success is having an actual acoustic piano that replicates the experience they are having at their weekly lesson.
- organize a consistent daily practice routine and stick to it! In the beginning of this program, practice times need not be lengthy, however the key words are “consistent and daily”. When children return to their next lesson prepared and secure, their attitude, self esteem and ability to benefit from the next lesson vastly improve!
- Support your teacher’s recommendations when they encourage your child to participate in studio recitals, festivals and other musical events. Music is about sharing and these experiences give them the opportunity to share what they have learning with their family and friends. It also teaches them how to ‘present’ themselves to the public and will enable them to be confident at school when giving oral presentations, participating in debates or other public speaking opportunities.
Make music a way of life for your child! Thirty minutes once a week will not create a student who recognizes and understands good music, who has an appreciation for the passion behind the writings of many of the famous composers, or give them the insight required to play more advanced music with understanding, feeling and emotion. Many symphony orchestras in large cities include children’s concerts in their annual programming. Think about making these part of your child’s musical experience! Encourage them to listen to classical music in the car while travelling or play soft classical music for them when they are falling asleep. All of things build an appreciation for music and the desire for them to want to continue to learn as they grow older!