Friday, December 20, 2013

Finding The Perfect Musical Instrument

By Madeleine Bridgeman


Many studies have demonstrated that playing a musical instrument is beneficial for children. It has been shown that students who participate in some type of music instruction have higher grades and score higher on college entrance exams. In addition, music is an excellent tool for self-expression and a fun, creative outlet. If your child wishes to learn how to play an instrument, here are some options to consider.

Prior to purchasing or renting an instrument, you need to think about what type of instrument best suits the personality of your child. For example, if your child is very shy, then you might want to steer away from the trumpet, the saxophone or the flute. The flute players generally sit right up in front of the band, which might make your child uncomfortable. Trumpet and saxophone solos often are common and this will place your child at center stage, which they might not want.

The age in which you begin taking lessons also can be a factor. Children younger than eight often have fewer options simply because of their more diminutive size. After all, a bassoon or an oboe can be too big and too complex for someone who is not only small, but also with less developed fine motor skills and small hands. Stringed instruments, which are available in a wide variety of sizes, are a good option for very young children. This includes traditional instruments such as the violin but also fun instruments such as the guitar. The piano also should be considered, and although smaller hands do have a more difficult time navigating the keys, learning both the bass and treble clefs will be beneficial if they choose another instrument in the future.

While most kids know a little bit about common instruments, such as the piano or the violin, they probably don't know a lot about other instruments such as the piccolo, the French horn, the trombone and the many different options when it comes to the percussion section. Provide your child with some examples of what each instrument looks like and sounds like, so they can find an instrument that sparks their interest. You also can select something modern, such as a guitar or keyboards or something a bit more old fashioned such as the harp or the accordion.

Often by taking private lessons, you open up your child's options beyond what might be offered at your local school. This includes taking drum lessons, guitar lessons, keyboard lessons or voice lessons. While most schools have a choir, the emphasis is on the group effort rather than improving one's individual vocal ability and this is where private lessons can really make a difference.

There are many choices for a music school in Laguna Niguel or music lessons in San Clemente or music classes in Dana Point, but if you find a fun way for your child to learn, he or she is more likely to stick with their instrument. One option would be to find a school such as the Los Rios Rock School, which is centrally located in San Juan Capistrano. Not only will children enjoy a weekly private instrument lesson, they also can participate in a true rock band. These bands are made up of students only, and they actually play at well-known locations such as The House of Blues.




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