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How Young?: Beginning a 4 year old on any musical instrument is a decision not to be taken lightly. The child must be very interested, have a grasp of the alphabet, be able to count well, be able to feel a rhythm, have a decent attention span and be physically able to reach or hold the instrument in question. It also makes things go much more smoothly if one or both parents are musicians- it is critical for the child to be able to continue to learn musical concepts at home in between lessons. Because practice times have to be not only monitered but help needs to be given, it definitely helps if a parent knows how to read music and can understand concepts central to the instrument. It is generally reccommended to wait until age 7 or 8 to start a child on an instrument but it depends on each individual child and the majority of well accomplished musicians did start at a very early age. Advice For The Raising Of Young Musicians: Keep them immersed in music. Notice what they are drawn to, whether it's symphonies, solo performances, vocal etc. and provide it. And make sure to let them hear a lot of performances on the instrument they are learning. It will serve as inspiration as well as teaching them musicality. Cd's are the easiest way to do this, but you can also look for programs on television, particularly on PBS, which include orchestra concerts or concerto performances. And look for concerts in your area. Be sure to teach your child concert etiquitte ahead of time and sit close to the door in case they become bored and you need to leave. Especially search out live performances on the instrument your child has chosen because these are the ones that will leave them in awe and wanting to practice. Autumn so far has attended 3 live performances by professional harpists and was able to talk to them following the concert and even play their harps in two of the three experiences. She was awestruck and talking about them for days. It was very inspiring for her. Links |