So, why should we offer our children private saxophone lessons if they are already in a band class at school? Learning a new instrument can be an extremely difficult concept to a young child. Fingers, breathing, note reading, counting, tonguing, and posture are all parts of the process of being a musician. Whether your child is wanting to pursue it as a career or just for self-enjoyment, private lessons can significantly help a new music student.
 

1. Private in home music lessons set up a child for success. When a private saxophone instructor is in a comfortable environment (in your home), the student will feel more relaxed and capable of applying new concepts of skills. A sold foundation is built and the child can keep learning, playing and succeeding. Your young musician will build confidence without the pressure of the rest of a band class pushing them to move ahead when they may not have mastered the new idea.
2. The child learns how to practice.  Most teachers forget that students don’t really know HOW to practice. As a private lessons instructor myself, a lot of our lesson time is spent on teaching practice skills more than anything else; and not only with beginner, but advanced students as well. Because lessons are (generally) once a week, most of the students practice time is without an instructor around, therefor that time they have in a practice room or in their room alone needs to be time well spent! A private instructor can help a student get the most of practice time and will help make it more exciting.
3. Working with a private teacher can help a student keep up with peers in the group setting. We all know that every child learns differently and at different paces. Because there are so many aspects of performing an instrument, children will progress differently. For example, a child may have no trouble placing their hands on the keys of a saxophone and have easy ability moving their fingers together correctly, but it may be impossible to learn the proper way to tongue something with a reed. If a student doesn’t get the help from someone privately, the wrong way of tonguing may become a major problem for them further down the road which can affect other aspects of playing- dynamics, control, articulation, etc.
4. Private lessons help to minimize frustration. As mentioned previously, there is a lot of pressure or stress when playing in a group setting. The less frustration the better when learning, right? Although frustration may create determination for some, it can easily discourage others. It’s sad to see a child give up learning an instrument in the early stages when all was needed was a little personal attention. Every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy and not be frustrated with making music.
5. It is easier to stay motivated with the help of a private instructor. Once a student is out of the beginner stages of playing, they may not know what to do next. With a private lesson history established, the teacher can help guide them in the next step or direction. Most all private teachers are very knowledgeable about different musical styles or opportunities and can help the student discover new music to learn or places to perform. Sometimes all a student needs in order to remain stimulated is someone to report to on a regular basis. It is always easier to work for something when you know someone is counting on you.

 
Overall, private music lessons can only benefit a music student no matter the age. They can help maximize a new musician’s opportunity for musical success and fun.  
Until next time… Happy Practicing 🙂
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