Lena's Music Studio: July 2013

Friday 26 July 2013

Curiosity

How important it is to have the sense of curiosity and and abundant dose of wonderment in exploring beautiful music on our instrument - the piano! What blessing to create and recreate beautiful music everyday of our lives!!

Wednesday 24 July 2013

How Can I Help My Child Be Successful in Piano Lessons?

Successful piano lessons require a “triangle” effort made up of parent, teacher and student.

1. Provide a good in-tune home instrument. Without a way to properly practice at home, your child will feel inadequate come lesson time and will rapidly lose motivation and interest.

2. Attend lessons regularly with all needed materials and a well-rested child - Regular attendance ensures that your child progresses. Progression leads to feelings of self-confidence and achievement. Piano students need their books/ materials at every lesson. Keep books organised at home and teach your child learn to be responsible for their materials.

Children learn best when they are well-rested (watch out for “extracurricular over-load”) and when they are healthy. Sick piano kids don’t retain very much… and result in sick piano teachers!

3. Establish a consistent and daily practice routine - Choose a specific time of day that works for your family (after dinner, after the bath etc.) and make piano practice a regular and consistent event every single day. Avoid times that are rushed, remove distractions (like the TV or smaller siblings) and offer encouragement and/or help with piano practice.

4. Be Positive… provide constant encouragement - Comment often on your child’s progress. Remember the names of the pieces they are working on and make requests as you go about your day to encourage regular visits to the piano. Show your pride by sharing videos, photos or musical phone calls with friends and family. Help your child to identify themselves as a “pianist”.

5. Stay involved! Show that you value music by providing live-music opportunities, encouraging your child’s participation in recitals and performances and being a part of their daily practice in some way (even if it’s only as a happy listener).