How To Decide Which Instrument Is Best 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.

In addition, the age in which they begin taking lessons also should be a factor in which instrument you select. Some instruments, such as the bassoon or tuba, are simply too large for small children. If your child is very young, any type of stringed instrument might be a good idea as you can rent or purchase very small violins, cellos, violas and even guitars. The piano is another option to consider as your child will learn to read both the treble clef and bass clef, which will be helpful if they add another instrument to their repertoire later.

While most kids know a little bit about common instruments, such as the piano or the violin, they probably don't know a lot about other instruments such as the piccolo, the French horn, the trombone and the many different options when it comes to the percussion section. Provide your child with some examples of what each instrument looks like and sounds like, so they can find an instrument that sparks their interest. You also can select something modern, such as a guitar or keyboards or something a bit more old fashioned such as the harp or the accordion.

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.

There are many choices for a music school in Laguna Niguel or music lessons in San Clemente or music classes in Dana Point, but if you find a fun way for your child to learn, he or she is more likely to stick with their instrument. One option would be to find a school such as the Los Rios Rock School, which is centrally located in San Juan Capistrano. Not only will children enjoy a weekly private instrument lesson, they also can participate in a true rock band. These bands are made up of students only, and they actually play at well-known locations such as The House of Blues.




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