I
have 2 young children and am a musician.
I often bring my guitar or recorder to the park or daycare, and the kids
love it. It is hard to understate the spell that music
creates, especially for children. I am always amazed at how quiet and
interested the kids become while you are playing music, especially on a
flute-like instrument. The old story of the "Pied Piper" was probably
not far off the mark, assuming that you lived in the 1700's and had no TV.
Music IS magic for children.
Many people ask me:
How can I get my child interested in music?
How old do they have to be before they take lessons?
What instrument is best for my child?
How did you learn how to play?
These are questions I hear again and again and hope to explore in this
article...
Everyone learns music in their own way... I have a small company
MonkeyWorks
and perform at local schools. I am a natural vocalist but started
playing recorder, baritone in school band, then trombone, guitar, piano; and
now computers...
I have met and played with many other musicians and have always learned a
thing or two from each experience. I feel it is my duty to pass along
a little inspiration; some people took the time with me; I should return the
favor.
Today's parents are looking for tactics and strategies to get their kids
playing music since they recognize it as a skill that can be useful in life
and helps create a well-rounded person.
The
following article is like a free buffet, my opinions only, take what you
like and leave the rest....
My daughter, after seeing the movie "the Incredibles"
asked me: What's YOUR super-power, dad? I answered "I'm
a musician".