In my earlier articles, I have discussed the value of music in early childhood education. I continuously emphasized how music is able to benefit a child's cognitive function, making it easier for them to learn new languages and grow academically.
Early music experiences in children can speed brain development, which is important for processing sound, learning languages, perceiving speeches, and improving reading abilities, according to a five-year University of South California Brain and Creativity study published in 2017.
Additionally, music also activates a portion of the brain that boosts emotional intelligence, social abilities, motor skills, and literacy acquisition. Hence, I personally encourage holistic learning experiences for children through music, starting as early as pre-school age!
However, enrolling your child in their first music school can be perplexing.You are surely full of questions. For instance, which instrument would be appropriate for your child’s petite frame? Or, perhaps, how long will this last?
I have a few factors to consider before your investment in your little one’s music. Let’s learn more about them!
The factors to consider
Before registering your little one at a music school, there are four factors you can consider: age, musical goals, natural talents, and, of course, cost.
The first factor to consider here is your child’s age. Because of their comprehension capacities, simpler instruments are recommended for younger children.
The first factor brings me to the second, which is the musical objectives. When your child is younger, your objective has to be to introduce them to instruments. When they are older, you can start forging learning pathways and goals for them, customized to their characteristics.
Before deciding on learning an instrument, be sure about your children’s achievements, be it performing solo, singing in a choir, or laying the groundwork first before a musical career.
Unsure? Ensiklomusika Music School’s teachers can assist you in selecting the best instrument and course for you!
Next is your child’s natural talents. Some children are more natural at certain instruments because of some limitations, like respiratory problems or energy level.
Although music classes can truly help some children improve their coordination and overcome other obstacles, there are a few things to keep in mind. Your child has to be comfortable playing the instrument they selected. Hence, identifying their natural ability as early as possible can really be an important factor before proceeding to master the instrument.
It is ideal to tailor the instrument to a child's specific skills and objectives. They will be more motivated to practice and improve their skills if they choose the correct instrument.
Last but not least, it is the cost! Your child’s first instrument does not have to be expensive; it just has to exist to help them practice daily. Maintain it well, and it will last longer than you think!
What if your little one can not decide?
If your little one is still unsure about which instrument to play, they should consider instruments that they love listening to. Help them find a musical instrument with which they can relate and connect by listening to as many songs as possible.
Each instrument survives solely because there are individuals willing to play it. The importance of music lessons for education should not be overlooked, so go ahead and encourage your child to choose an instrument that they will like.
If you cannot decide between the piano and another instrument, I suggest you go with the piano. Although the piano is the most popular instrument among teachers, the best instrument to learn is the one you commit to studying. It is also the easiest.
The last tip of advice
To be able to master an instrument, your little one needs to consistently practice!
Don’t hesitate to encourage them to experiment and play with many instruments so they can learn new things and grow comfortable with them. Help your little one find the music they enjoy, or even ask our music teachers in Ensiklomusika Music School whether an instrument is suitable for your little one. This is quite essential, as it may assist you in maintaining your learning enthusiasm.
Every artist started off as a novice. If you're interested in learning an instrument, go for it. You should learn an instrument because it interests you rather than anything else.
Good luck with your instrument decision, and have fun on your musical adventure!
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