When are children ready for music lessons?

Frequently asked question: “When should my child begin lessons on an instrument?”

Short answer: when he can concentrate on one activity for at least 20 minutes and is begging to take lessons.

Longer answer: Music has three basic elements—rhythm, melody and harmony. A child learns basic rhythms very early—heartbeats in the womb, rocking and bouncing in the nursery, then toddler gymnastics and pre-school dance classes. As parents sing to their children or play recorded music, the child tunes his ear and learns to match pitches. Clear live singing or recordings of folk songs are the best examples for children to imitate. Many two-year olds can sing the melody of “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” (aka the Alphabet Song). Encourage such behavior. Recognizing the supporting harmonies comes later. Having pleasurable experiences with these basic elements in home, day care, pre-school and church settings facilitates learning an instrument. After the human voice, violin or piano are the best instruments for developing basic musicianship. At three, a few children, especially those who have musicians in their families, are ready to start Suzuki violin lessons, using scaled-down instruments. Children who can read at 4 or 5 and have adequate finger dexterity may be ready for piano lessons, but they will learn to read music faster at 6 or 7. Take care to select a teacher who is warm and loving, as well as skilled and knowledgeable.

Resources for learning more about music lessons:

1. Your Musical Child: Inspiring Kids to Play and Sing for Keeps by Jessica Baron Turner. Paperback at Amazon $14.95 or in your local library.
2. Sound Choices: Guiding Your Child’s Musical Experiences by Wilma Machover and Marienne Uszler. Out of print, but may be in libraries.
3. For helpful hints for parents go to Music Teachers National Association.