#1 Arrive on time for lessons
The
old adage applies to music lessons; if you’re not 5 minutes early,
you’re 5 minutes late. Make sure that your child is all settled with
their instrument and sheet music or books before their lesson begins. When they’re ready to go right on time, you haven’t wasted a minute (or a cent)!
#2 Attend the occasional lessons
You
certainly don’t need to attend every single lesson. But by sitting in
every once in awhile you’ll hear how songs should sound. You’ll have a
better understanding of what challenges your child is experiencing and
where they need to improve. Also - you’ll be hearing the teacher’s tips
so you can offer better support at home. Be sure to ask questions!
#3 Make sure your child practices
Regular practice is important to making progress. Effective
practice is essential and when the mind is engaged, time flies. Be
sure your child understands not only how long to practice, but how
to practice. If 20 minutes of daily practice is the goal, set a
practice time and stick to it. Effective practice includes repetition,
focused listening, identifying weaknesses as well as progress/success
and setting daily goals. Lean on the teacher--a good teacher teaches
how to practice. Ask: How should she work on this piece? How much time
should be spent on each song? How many repetitions? How fast? Ask
the teacher to write notes.
#4 Keep that instrument in good condition
Make
sure to keep tabs on the condition of your child’s instrument. If
they’re learning piano, make sure its tuned. If they’re learning a
woodwind instrument, make sure they’ve got enough reeds. They may or may
not tell you if a key is sticking or if they need new strings. Its
tough to learn on a broken instrument and its really no fun to sound bad
either. Once again, use your teacher as a resource.
#5 Do your research
There’s
plenty to know about learning to play music. Pick up tips and tricks by
reading blogs and networking with other parents of music students! Here
is a list of 14 online communities you don’t want to miss. Check out AMP and Music Matters Blog - both blogs regularly publish valuable information for music parents. Also - be sure to bookmark The ZOEN Blog for more musical tips and advice!
#6 Encourage your child
Learning
to play music isn’t always easy. Your child needs to know that you are
hearing improvements! Consider taking your child to the symphony or a
live concert. It is inspiring for kids to hear and see their instrument
in a new context and played by a professional. Enjoy that experience
with them!
#7 Try not to miss lessons
Consistency
is the key to musical progress. Do your best to make sure that regular
music lessons are a part of your child’s routine regardless of school
breaks! With online lessons, you don't have to miss weeks of lessons
when you go on vacation, have bad weather, or your kid has pink eye.
Pack up that flute or guitar and take it to the beach, connect with
your teacher in The ZOEN, and carve out some practice time in the down hours.
The
self discipline your child learns through music lessons is a skill that
will continue to benefit them in the future. Enjoy the process with
them, and who knows, maybe you’ll be dusting off that clarinet before
long!
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