What’s the best age to start private music lessons?

Though the “right” age to begin music lessons is unique to each child, many students as young as 4-year olds can have great success in music lessons.

Music Lessons for 4 – 6 year olds
Develop a love for music by learning basic rhythms and notes that can be applied to a progressive method book and relevant supplementary material. Students can learn basic chord patterns and accompany themselves while singing. Lessons should be centered around play and discovery of the joy of music. The piano and Loog guitar are ideal instruments for this age range.

Music Lessons for 7 – 10 year olds
Increased finger dexterity and focus enables students to take on more advanced material. Students may benefit from longer lessons and practice sessions. Students in this age range may be ready for instruments that require more coordination and/or dexterity such as the guitar, trombone, trumpet, and drums.

Music Lessons for Students 11 years +
Students of this age are ready for any instrument and pursue complicated material and refine their technique and expression. As voice students hit puberty they begin to come into their adult voice and be ready for more advanced classical training.

Setting Your Child Up For Success In Private Music Lessons

• Find a teacher who specializes in working with young children and can incorporate play, make-believe and games into the lesson.

• Make practice a part of the weekly routine. Sit with your child during practice until they are at least 6 years old.

• Find a studio that offers regular performance opportunities to keep your child inspired and focused.

• See live music of different genres and ensemble make-ups.