What's Keeping You from Music Lessons?

Let’s be honest. When you think about arranging music lessons for your children, your first thought is “What a waste of money!”

I mean, your child will probably never become famous, so what's the point?

May I answer your question with a question? Why do you allow your child to participate in other activities, like sports ? They will probably never become famous, so what's the point?

Well, it’s more than just fame or fortune. Kids develop life skills such as team work, discipline, critical thinking, confidence, and learning from failure. They may even receive a sports scholarship to a college, however it is not guaranteed.

It’s the same with music lessons. Your child will develop team work by playing/singing with others, discipline with daily practice, confidence through experience and performance, and learn how to recover from a memory slip. The same qualities acquired through sports can be achieved through music as well music. Many schools offer music scholarships as well.

Another excuse people give for delaying music lessons is time. However, diligence in any extra- curricular activity involves time. Music lessons demand many hours of patience and practice. Most of this important practice time happens at home. I have seen many students jump into lessons, not understanding the amount of practice time that is required or the hard work needed for a successful lesson. They usually last a few months then drop out. This is why many believe their money and time have been wasted.

To avoid these issues, it is your responsibility to communicate your expectations of your child’s lessons as well as understand the teacher’s expectations for your child.

When researching music lessons for your child, remember that you will be investing in far more than just the ability to sing or play an instrument. You are developing important life skills that any successful person possesses. You must also remember to establish clear communication with your child’s teacher about expectations. Music lessons are not for everyone, as the same principle is found in every activity.

To simply dismiss the thought of music lessons without weighing the pros and cons is to deny your child a wonderful opportunity to discover a beautiful and useful talent.