Friday, May 13, 2011

Tips For Taking Music Lessons

By Adriana Noton


Music lessons can benefit anyone desiring proficiency on an instrument. Instruction is available for almost any situation, but be sure to pick an instructor that fits the needs of the student. Young or old, an instructor can direct the student's skills in a positive direction and offer guidance they may not receive on their own. No matter the instrument, there is instruction available in some form, be it the electric guitar, a wind instrument, or voice. Group and sessions are usually offered, and potential students should decide which will benefit them the most.

Children are often first exposed to live instruments and group singing at preschool age. While four and five year-olds are certainly capable of expressing themselves musically, they typically do not benefit from private lessons until they are at least five or six. However, they do tend to thrive in group instruction. Starting a child too soon can result in resentment and a future resistance to learning an instrument. Adults can begin learning at any age so long as they possess the discipline and desire to practice and learn.

College and high school band and orchestra directors are good contacts for local instructors on instruments that are used in concert and marching bands, and symphony groups. Other instruments such as piano, drums, and guitar are typically taught at local instrument stores. Vocal coaches tend to make themselves available through local stores and colleges as well. Some universities also offer junior symphonies or concert bands for group instruction.

Most public schools offer classes such as band and choir which provide group instruction. Bands typically involve traditional wind, brass, and percussion instruments, and some schools offer jazz ensemble classes where students can learn to play instruments in a smaller group setting. Choirs also provide an environment in which students can learn vocal techniques and group performance. Many schools also make private tutoring available to students.

While large stringed instruments such as the bass or cello are too large for some children, some have show early proficiency with the violin or viola. Tutors can often be located by contacting a local university program, band director, or instrument store. These instruments require a time and financial commitment from both parent and child so be sure to discuss this if the student is young.

Younger children usually do not have the lung capacity or ability to perform the breathing exercises necessary for successful vocal coaching. Coaches typically prefer children no younger than ten years of age for this reason. Vocal chords have not typically developed enough for professional instruction until that age, which can frustrate younger children.

Some students prefer group instruction because of peer interaction. This is also a more traditional learning situation that provides opportunities to perform and learn from other students. Others choose private instruction for convenience and the immediate feedback that comes from individual direction. These sessions usually take place in the teacher's home or the student's home, which can be far more convenient than group situations.

Know your goals and the time and financial commitment necessary to reach them when considering instruction on an instrument. It is important to find both the instructor, instrument, and environment that that will help you to be musically fulfilled. Music lessons Richmond can be a great joy when approached with enthusiasm and patience.




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