Is your child expressing an interest in music lessons? Here are some thoughts on the best time to begin, what to consider instrument wise, and why lessons are a great investment.

When is the best time to begin.

We have found that children often show a readiness for music lessons around 6-7 years. Of course, each child is unique, and so it can often be more helpful to know what skills to look for. Confidence in fine motor skills and self-regulation are two strengths which support success in music lessons. Also, there is a shift in abstract thinking right around age seven, which lends itself to learning an instrument and the language of music. Again, each child is unique, and we know certain skills can be in flux depending on the day. The key is to lean into where your child is so that you can choose the best path forward, which brings us to what to consider when choosing an instrument and instructor.

Group lessons often start earlier.

Group lessons offer opportunities for students to move and make friends in an age appropriate introduction to music and to an instrument.

We offer group piano for ages 4’s & 5’s in our Piano Corner classes. Students learn keyboard geography with an introduction to rhythm reading.

Kindermusik for the Young Child classes are group music lessons to learn how to read and write music with an introduction to glockenspiel, dulcimer, violin, and recorder for ages 5-7. During the summer, these students typically enroll in a Ukulele Summer Camp. These classes offer the best musical foundation for future music lessons and group music-making in schools.

Our Group Lesson Suite is designed for ages 6-9 with offerings for Group Piano, Group Ukulele, Group Violin, Group Cello, and Band Class with Nuvo Instruments. Learn more here.

What about choosing an instrument?

Here are some things to take into consideration: your child’s preferences (What type of music do they like? What are their favorite subjects?), your child’s aversions (Is there a sound or other sensory experience that really bothers your child?), areas your child is confident, and areas where your child is still growing. Also, it’s a great idea to think about your preferences as well, as you will be a key player on your child’s musical journey. After considering these things talk with a school and ask questions…asks lots of questions! They will ask questions too. With your knowledge of your child and their knowledge of musical instruction you are sure to find a good fit!

A Few Observations about Private Lessons.

We have found that younger students thrive best on piano, ukulele, violin, cello, and flute.
By age 8, we also recommend considering viola, voice, and guitar.
At age 9, many students start focusing on band instruments like trumpet, trombone, and saxophone.
In middle school, students often branch out to string bass, tuba, and oboe.

If your student is really interested in band and is ages 6-9 years, consider our Studio Band classes featuring Nuvo instruments. It’s an ideal start to band instruments that provide and easier transition to traditional band instruments at age 9.

Not all students thrive in Private Lessons. One size does not fit all. That’s why we developed our Group Lesson Suite. These small groups foster connection and confidence while providing an excellent musical foundation.

Why choose music lessons?

Music study is unique because it is inherently multisensory and multidisciplinary, It has elements of math, language, history, and even science. Furthermore, studies have shown that musical instruction reaps growth in other academic areas and strengthens coordination. All these things aside, making music is in itself a great source of joy. It is also a great outlet for self-expression and those “big feelings.”  Playing as part of a musical group creates a sense of belonging and teaches teamwork. Musical instruction helps people of all ages develop the skills for a lifetime of joyful and expressive music making!

At Kathy’s Music, we are using music to change the world one student at a time.

Students that join our school are experiencing joy while we nurture their musical skills. We are developing their self-confidence through teamwork and performance opportunities in a community where each student is special.

Contact us today to learn more about lessons and schedule a meeting with an instructor.

Email: Info@KathysMusic.com| 412-345-5200