Friday, May 13, 2011

Take A Musical Journey Through Music Lessons

By Adriana Noton


Music lessons are a key step to proficiency on a variety of instruments. If the teacher knows the goals of the students, they can better help them achieve their goals. Children and adults can learn an instrument with the help of a qualified tutor. There are as many options for instruction as there are types of instruments to learn, and choices such as group or private settings make learning an instrument fun.

While it is true that you are never too old to start learning an instrument, some parents find that starting a child younger than five years old in private instruction can often make them feel overwhelmed. In these cases, group instruction is usually enjoyable and an easier environment in which the child can grasp basic concepts. Children who are musically inclined will be ready for one-on-one instruction soon enough, and in the meantime it is important for them to have pleasant associations with musical environments.

College and high school band and orchestra directors are good contacts for local instructors on instruments that are used in concert and marching bands, and symphony groups. Other instruments such as piano, drums, and guitar are typically taught at local instrument stores. Vocal coaches tend to make themselves available through local stores and colleges as well. Some universities also offer junior symphonies or concert bands for group instruction.

Most public schools offer classes such as band and choir which provide group instruction. Bands typically involve traditional wind, brass, and percussion instruments, and some schools offer jazz ensemble classes where students can learn to play instruments in a smaller group setting. Choirs also provide an environment in which students can learn vocal techniques and group performance. Many schools also make private tutoring available to students.

Stringed instruments such as the violin, cello, bass, or viola require discipline and a robust learning environment. Instructors can often be found through a music store or local band and orchestra directors. Some children have shown great proficiency with stringed instruments at very young ages, so it is important to work with a tutor to determine the child's interest and level of ability before committing to regular sessions. Some stringed instruments are too large for small children, so take their size into account.

Younger children usually do not have the lung capacity or ability to perform the breathing exercises necessary for successful vocal coaching. Coaches typically prefer children no younger than ten years of age for this reason. Vocal chords have not typically developed enough for professional instruction until that age, which can frustrate younger children.

Some students prefer group instruction because of peer interaction. This is also a more traditional learning situation that provides opportunities to perform and learn from other students. Others choose private instruction for convenience and the immediate feedback that comes from individual direction. These sessions usually take place in the teacher's home or the student's home, which can be far more convenient than group situations.

There are so many instruments to choose from, and so many ways to learn to play them, that the beginner may be overwhelmed at first. Think carefully about your personal goals and pick a method that works best. Taking music lessons Richmond is a great idea for anyone seeking to master an instrument or their own voice.




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