Children may grasp rhythm and pitch as early as age 3. Does that mean it’s time to start piano lessons? Many need more time. Some are musically ready early but lack social and emotional skills. Gauge your child’s readiness:
- Can your child sing a song on key?
- Can your child keep a consistent beat?
- Can your child sit and focus for 15 to 30 minutes?
- At a minimum, does your child know numbers 1 to 5 and letters A to G?
- Is your child interested in reading and able to begin reading music?
- Is your child big enough to reach the keys or hold the instrument?
- Is your child easily frustrated, or can she cope with the discipline and patient repetition needed for practicing?
- Can your child handle the pressure of performing in public recitals?
- Is your child overscheduled? Is there enough play time in his day?
- Does your child truly want to learn an instrument?
Many music educators suggest waiting until age 7 to 9 for music lessons. Suzuki Method students start as young as 3 (without reading music) but still need rhythm and pitch basics first. If either rhythm or pitch is a challenge, try informal, movement-based group classes first.
When you feel your child is ready for formal lessons, don’t forget Back to Basics. Believe it or not we offer 1 on 1 lessons in piano, flute, tenor sax, clarinet, guitar, trumpet and more! Call us at 302-594-0754.
For 27 years, Back to Basics Learning Dynamics Inc. has been recognized as the undisputed leader in one-on-one tutoring in Nationwide. In addition, the company offers a unique Department of Education-approved Private School for grades K-12 and a Private Business and Trade School for ages 16 and older. Back to Basics is the 2010 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics.