By Mindy Cabral, The Magazine of Santa Clarita, May 2011
Studies have shown that music can help people become healthier by easing stress, soothing emotions, and by providing an outlet for expression. Music also provides support in many academic learning processes such as math (specifically division), reading, creativity, problem solving, and interpretation. Music gives pleasure, teaches about history and cultures, provides discipline, and gives people joy that can be experienced again and again.
Like any activity, “playing music” takes work, concentration, focus, and lots of practice. Students can learn through play in their lessons through music games, stories, instrument playing, etc. Consistent practicing at home pays off quickly and soon the work becomes play. Parents often tell me they want to keep music fun so their child will like it. I couldn’t agree more! The students I teach that enjoy playing music the most are the ones that consistently attend their private lessons or group classes and who follow through with practicing at home. They come prepared each week and often have the music memorized because they have played it so many times!
It is natural to experience ups and downs when learning something new, especially when things become more challenging. Learning music is no exception. Some students get to that crucial turning point want to quit because “it’s to hard”. If parents allow their child to quit, what is that teaching them? It’s ok to give up? These challenges are part of the learning process but are an important time in which you will see the most growth and the student will feel the greatest accomplishment in them selves.
Students also need to keep up their interest and motivation. Attending consistent weekly private lessons or group classes, with a teacher that connects well with the student, will help keep them on their toes. Learning a variety of styles such as classical, jazz, rock, and fold music can help keep the students’ interest as they make connections to the world around them.
Participating in a musical ensemble, such as a band or orchestra, allows students combine the skills they learned in a private lesson or group class with others to make music. This type of cooperative learning environment refines listening skills, allows for more playing and performance opportunities, introduces students to new music, teaches creativity and expression, gives students a place to share their talents with others, and it’s fun!
It’s never too late! All ages are welcome to come learn music in an environment that is comfortable to you. Open Registration is on Monday, May 16th for summer and fall private lessons, group classes and ensembles. Little School of Music 28306 Constellation Rd. • 661-222-2239 • www.LittleSchoolofMusic.com
© copyright 2011