Learning an instrument

[storychick]

So how do you get started with the kids? I'd like to get Ciaran going on something in the next year or two -- he has a great ear and I think the discipline might be good for him. But how do you go about deciding what instrument, finding an instructor, etc? Any thoughts?

Comments

[mhaille]

My parents waited until I was old enough to choose for myself, but if he has no idea yet, piano is always a good introduction. It teaches music theory and will give him a good grounding if he decides to pick up another instrument later.

does he really seem interested in anthing musical?

[riggimortis]

I am all for exposing kids to music lessons but you might want to try to get a feel for what he likes. It is much easier to get both cooperation and willingness to practice if he is enthused.
Personally I HATED piano fought every inch of the way not to go or practice but willingly went to guitar lessons and practiced because I loved it!

Re: does he really seem interested in anthing musical?

[storychick]

He does, actually -- he listens to a wide range of music, sings well, and seems intrigued by the variety of instruments out there. I think it would appeal to his math side too. Maybe I'll pop in Fantasia again and see if he likes strings vs piano vs woodwinds lol

[dancingmom]

Also, if you pick piano, he's got to practice and pianos are expensive! So consider that too.

Private instruction is also expensive so I'd ask around and see who other parents are recommending. I'd like to do the same for Pete (I believe guitar is his instrument) but I need to find the right teacher (and some money, lol!)

[storychick]

I have a secret desire for him to learn violin, which he seems intrigued by (though I suspect that with any instrument he will get frustrated if he is not immediately good at it...)

I guess I will wait, and ask around at the new school. There are lots of parents there with older kids who might be in that loop. Most of my contacts now are preschool parents who dont know that kind of stuff yet.

[mrsjumper]

We're renting a 1/4 size violin for Kate. I'd be happy to bring it over and have her show him a few things and let him try it out. Jeff is attempting to teach her, but she's not thrilled about the pinchy-pokey feeling of fingering the strings. *sigh*

A stringed instrument might be a good idea for him; they are very tactile.

[storychick]

I will confess that it is partly that it seems the least annoying instrument to have to listen to. lol I'm trying to sway him towards piano, sax or violin -- and AWAY from percussion. ;)

When do you guys want to come over? I'm getting hassled with requests to make plans. :) We're free any afternoon or evening, basically...

[xsquared]

I think this is a job for...
MR. B NATURAL!

*snort*

But seriously, I think it is awesome that you are starting him so young - I wish I had learned something earlier, maybe I'd still be playing.

[storychick]

*chokes on her tea*

If it involves that scary Thing coming to my house, forget it ;)