I’ve noticed a great number of perks my piano students experience, many of which go far beyond the musical benefits. I’ve been teaching piano lessons in Washington, DC since 2014, and these are the most common and significant ones that I’ve seen in my time as a teacher, and the main reasons parents should support their child taking piano lessons.
Demonstrates the rewards of a student’s work on a pretty short timeline
I can’t count the number of times that I’ve had a student who hadn’t been practicing very much for a few weeks. Then after one solid week of practice, they’re amazed at the results they’ve achieved. Recognizing that a relatively small amount of work, if done consistently, can make them feel so accomplished is a skill that translates very well to other areas of life. Having a weekly time where this idea is reinforced by a Washington, DC Piano teacher is immensely beneficial for children.
Helps establish productive routines
For many children (and if I’m being honest, myself as well) unscheduled time can easily disappear into video games or social media. Piano lessons are a great way to emphasize the importance of making time for things that matter. It doesn’t have to be the same time every day, but setting aside ten minutes to work on the piano can be the beginning of the development of time management skills.
Great for building a relationship between children and parents
I’m sure I don’t need to tell anyone that kids are very proud of themselves when they know something their parents don’t. I’m also a firm believer that the best way to solidify one’s own understanding of a subject is to explain it clearly to someone else. Taking a few minutes to have your child explain how to read notes on the treble clef, or how to count a rhythm will be rewarding for them, and reinforce their understanding, as well as creating a bonding experience between parent and child. Showing support is one of the things a parent can do to prepare their children for success with the piano.
An excellent way to remove distractions
I’m far from the first to notice that today’s world is full of distractions, and there are almost no activities which are immune. Spending 30 minutes one on one with a teacher guarantees that there is someone paying close attention to a student, and keeping track of when interest wanes. When a student is distracted, it’s much easier for the teacher to notice and rein their attention back in.
Helps students track progress
The idea of “playing the piano” is a little bit vague, but if a student knows “I need to practice 4 measures of this piece,” or “I need to read these 10 notes,” they can develop an understanding of short term goals, which keeps them aware of current projects
Music brings joy into life
Almost all of the reasons I’ve listed so far have little or nothing to do with music, but it’s of course unquantifiably beneficial to have music in a child’s life. From the joy and peace it can bring just listening to music, to the fun that can be had performing it, music is a tremendous benefit to everyone involved.
Boosts the child’s sense of independence
It’s unlikely that they’re learning anything at school that you as a parent are unfamiliar with, but if a student’s parents are not musicians, music can be something that this child feels makes them unique and independent.
Provide immense social benefits
I’ve had a number of students who have taken lessons since early childhood go on to join school band or even start their own rock bands when they get a little older. Music has a wonderful ability to bring like minded people together, and even very shy children are able to forge strong friendships with other young musicians.
There are a great deal of benefits to studying the piano, even if it does not end up becoming a lifelong passion. The skills, discipline, and appreciation for both hard work and the results it brings are reinforced by piano lessons, and if a child is interested in learning how to make music, I strongly encourage parents to be supportive and the first thing you can do is to make sure that they are getting the best music teacher. At Lessons In Your Home, our instructors are thoroughly vetted, professional, and passionate about music. Our teachers will come right to your home for every lesson, plus we offer virtual music lessons, too. Our online music lessons are being taught by local music teachers with live lessons tailored to your child! Contact us today to learn more.
By Andrew Pendergrast
