Q: Are there benefits in
taking myself or my children to your music school instead of having lessons in our home?
Yes! In general, those who take lessons at a music school are
more motivated to continue in music:
- It's a professional learning environment. The studios are
private. There is no distraction from TV, ringing phones,
dishwashers, pets, other
household members and visitors.
- Choose from a selection of teachers, not just the
private teachers who are willing to come to your home.
- A student is part of a community of music makers. Home
lessons can be a lonely activity because students spend the
bulk of their playing time alone in a practice room.
- You are exposed to a musical environment. Often, people
get into playing music because their friend does, or they've
listened to a particular musician that's touched
them. A store stocked with instruments and people playing
them is very motivational for learning.
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The encouragement of fellow musicians and teachers within our
school is invaluable.
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Q: Can I teach myself to play an instrument?
Some very accomplished musicians are
self-taught. Several "Teach Yourself" books and videos
are available. However, you will learn much quicker if you have
a qualified instructor who teaches you the proper technique in
the early stages of learning. Otherwise you may develop bad
habits that will be difficult to undo.
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Q: I would like to learn to play, but I don't think I have musical
talent. People say I'm "tone-deaf." Can I learn?
EVERYONE has musical talent. We've never found anyone who
couldn't respond to or participate in music at some level. Try
some lessons with a qualified instructor. If you're having fun,
then you're on the right track!
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Q: How much time should I spend
practicing each day?
It's not so much the exact practice time that's important,
but consistent daily practice. A beginner can start with 10-30 minutes per day. After that, the time will vary depending on your
ability. Eventually, you will no longer feel like you are
"practicing." You'll be playing because you love it!
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Q: My child takes in-school orchestra classes. Should
he/she also take private lessons?
There is nothing better than one-on-one instruction.
Individual attention enables a child to focus on their musical
interests and goals and progress more rapidly to perform to the
best of their ability.
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Q: How can I help my child succeed in music?
- Schedule regular daily practice times in a quiet place.
- Be nearby during practise times as often as possible and
praise your child's efforts and achievements.
- Provide your child with regular opportunities to play music
with and for family and friends.
- Expose your child to a variety of musical experiences. Listen to music together
at home, attend concerts, music festivals, participate in community music events.
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Q: At what age should a child start lessons?
Piano -- Children can begin at age 3 and up. They should recognize numbers one through five and
understand the correlation between the numbers on the page and
the finger numbers. If he or she knows the alphabet A
through G, that is all that's needed. Your child should be
able to sit still at the piano for about 10 to 15 minutes while
focusing on having fun.
Woodwinds -- Children as young as age 5 can begin learning
the recorder, which is a great stepping stone to any instrument. Progression to flute, clarinet, and saxophone depends
on the child's fingers being large enough to cover holes and
reach keys. Also, a child must have the strength to hold the
instrument.
Brass -- Brass instruments can be too heavy for a
child younger than age 9. Many young children don't have the
strength or manual dexterity. Also, playing brass instruments
requires significant breath control, lung capacity, and special
mouthing techniques.
Violin -- Violins come in several different
sizes, so it possible to start at age 4.
Guitar -- Guitars come in small sizes,
so children can begin at age 4
or 5.
Drum Kit -- Kids can start on a junior-size kit at age
5.
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Q: Should I rent or buy an instrument for my child?
We recommend our rental program:
- It's an excellent way to see if your child has an interest
in the instrument.
- If your child loses interest, simply return the
instrument.
- Should you decide to buy the rental instrument, Allegro Music
will apply all rental payments to the instrument's purchase
price or a step-up instrument.
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can I HELP MY CHILD PRACTICE?