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How To Select An Instrument For Your Child

By Madeleine Bridgeman


Many studies have demonstrated that playing a musical instrument is beneficial for children. It has been shown that students who participate in some type of music instruction have higher grades and score higher on college entrance exams. In addition, music is an excellent tool for self-expression and a fun, creative outlet. If your child wishes to learn how to play an instrument, here are some options to consider.

Prior to purchasing or renting an instrument, you need to think about what type of instrument best suits the personality of your child. For example, if your child is very shy, then you might want to steer away from the trumpet, the saxophone or the flute. The flute players generally sit right up in front of the band, which might make your child uncomfortable. Trumpet and saxophone solos often are common and this will place your child at center stage, which they might not want.

The age in which you begin taking lessons also can be a factor. Children younger than eight often have fewer options simply because of their more diminutive size. After all, a bassoon or an oboe can be too big and too complex for someone who is not only small, but also with less developed fine motor skills and small hands. Stringed instruments, which are available in a wide variety of sizes, are a good option for very young children. This includes traditional instruments such as the violin but also fun instruments such as the guitar. The piano also should be considered, and although smaller hands do have a more difficult time navigating the keys, learning both the bass and treble clefs will be beneficial if they choose another instrument in the future.

If your child isn't sure which instrument to choose but wants to play something, give them some opportunities to see or hear musical instruments in action. For instance, take them to a concert and let them watch an orchestra perform. Play various examples of songs that feature a specific instrument solo. Go online and search for websites that show pictures of the different instruments in the full, modern orchestra and what each instrument sounds like. While they probably seen a variety of instruments, they might not know much about each one, and a little bit of knowledge can make the decision easier.

Often by taking private lessons, you open up your child's options beyond what might be offered at your local school. This includes taking drum lessons, guitar lessons, keyboard lessons or voice lessons. While most schools have a choir, the emphasis is on the group effort rather than improving one's individual vocal ability and this is where private lessons can really make a difference.

When searching for a music school in San Clemente or perhaps music lessons in Laguna Niguel or music classes in Dana Point, it is a good idea to find a school that teaches the basics in a more exciting way than a traditional music school. Los Rios Rock School, for instance, offers private music lessons as well as a rock band experience for its students. Students team up in actual rock bands and perform at local concert venues such as Coach House and the House of Blues.




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