You have decided
it is time to start piano lessons, you have read the articles on the benefits
of music and, like all parents, you want your child to have that advantage. You
may have even talked to other parents and colleagues and have decided where
you will be taking lessons. Great! But that is just the beginning! There is a lot
more to do.
1.
Prepare
the child, go in and register together. Choose a time to visit that is suitable
to both you and your child. Don't be in a rush – it is not just a quick errand
on your to do list. Make sure the soon-to-be student is not tired. Your child
needs to know ahead of time what to expect. Check out the studio, the
classroom, where they will be sitting. Will you be in with them? What do the
books look like? Do all this with ENTHUSIASM.
2.
Have
an instrument at home before they start lessons. Piano lessons are probably the
first extra curricular activity that really catches parents off guard because
they are not prepared. There is going to be work at home and if your child is
going to succeed this must be part of the musical journey. You would never take
your drivers test without practising, would you? Then why do you think it is
fine not to have an instrument at home for them to practise? Please don't even
think that ridiculous comment: “Well… if they like it we will get her a piano”
How can the student like it when she comes to her first months of lessons
unprepared? Now that I hope I have convinced you that you need to have an
instrument, think about where you are going to place it. NOT in the same room
as the television, and NOT in a lonely place, like the bedroom or the basement.
You are not going to banish her to practise!
3.
Finally,
you are going to be part of this! Are
you ready to make the commitment? Even students as young as 4 are expected to
practice! Ten minutes a day, 5 times a week. YOU need to be there! Children of
this age are not going to practise on their own. You will be guiding them through their time at
the piano. Students who get into the habit of regular practice are always more
successful! You will be there to ensure they are practising correctly what was
assigned and to encourage them.
I congratulate you
on choosing to make music part of you child’s life. It is going to be quite the
journey. Enjoy it!
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