Parents’ guide to music lessons

Research shows that children enrolled in music lessons perform on average 34 percent better in IQ tests and one to two grades better in math and reading, with the advantage increasing with age and length of studying music. And music is a whole brain activity that while being fun and hands-on, increases memory, concentration, language, math, creative and spatial skills and develops imagination and abstract thinking. Unfortunately, with today’s emphasis on math and reading and standardized testing, high quality music and arts instruction are no longer available in general education curriculums. Your role as a parent is very important in your child’s ability to succeed in their music learning and in gaining valuable life skills.

At Maryland Music Studio we teach children as young as 5 using the Suzuki method. This is a specially crafted approach for young children with a special focus on learning by ear, memorization and instrumental technique while gradually introducing musical notation. Suzuki method requires a more active parental participation, but no music skills from the parent are necessary, only a daily commitment of time. For older children starting between ages 8-10, standard music instruction will apply. Because kids at that age do not yet posses enough discipline for regular practicing they will require you to set a practicing schedule and make sure they start their practice sessions every day. Usually once a child is picking up the instrument to practice on a given day there is no further need to supervise their practice at that moment. Showing up is the most important part of achieving success in learning music, and they will need your help. In general kids should devote time for practice every day, and ideally would practice at least 20 to 30 minutes. Your teacher will help them set goals and practice routines during the lessons.