“When will I know my child is ready for piano lessons?” is a question I often hear as a piano teacher. While every child is unique, there are four signs I look for in a child to determine if they are ready to take private piano lessons. If you are wondering if your student is ready for private piano lessons have a look at the following list. If your child shows these four signs, he or she might be ready to start piano lessons!
1.) CURIOSITY & INTEREST
Your child shows an interest in the piano by approaching the instrument to explore and play on it independently. Your child might also express a high interest in other instruments, singing, or music in general.
2.) READING ABILITY
Your child is able do some independent reading. Most of the piano method books assume that the child can read at least some of the directions. If your child cannot read, then you will need to sit with them as they practice to make sure they understand the directions.
3.) ATTENTION SPAN
Will your child be able to sit at the piano for the majority of a half hour lesson? A good piano teacher will mix up the activities in a half hour lesson to help hold your child’s attention. However, if your child has a hard time staying focused for a half hour, it might be best to hold off on lessons till they can maintain their focus for longer periods of time.
4.) PRACTICE IS WORK!
Consistent practice is the most important element to your child’s success. Piano students must practice and while much of the material they will play is “fun,” practicing is hard work. Ask your child if they are prepared to go to the piano at least 5 days a week and spend 15-30 minutes practicing. If the answer to that questions is no, then they are not ready for lessons. Only so much can be accomplished in even the most productive of lessons. The majority of a piano student’s progress is made through the consistent discipline of practicing most days, every week.
Once you have looked over these four signs, you can make a decision regarding pursuing piano lessons for your child. Your next step is to contact a piano teacher. The teacher should have excellent references and be experienced teaching a variety of students. Finding a teacher who is passionate about their discipline and loves working with children is a great way to give your student a positive start to piano lessons.
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1 Comment
I never assumed that a kid would need to practice 5 days a week for 15-30 minutes. When I was 10-years-old I remember taking piano lessons from a little old lady around the block only on Tuesdays after school. To make sure my 11-year-old want to put in the practice, I will be sure to ask her if she is ready for this!