I love teenagers. They are full of unmatched energy and passion and zest for life. If I could have even a portion of the energy they have, well, I can only imagine what great things I’d be able to accomplish. My 15-year-old son is a bundle of passion. I mean, Read more…
The Teacher’s Role. Any student deserves a committed teacher who makes lessons fun, as well as an instrument that they find interesting. Your teacher should provide you with information about effective practice habits to prevent the practice mentality of most students: they run quickly through each assigned song and call Read more…
External Stimuli. Don’t be afraid to offer your children rewards for completing their practice. Whether it’s a sticker chart to help them work towards a big prize, or TV time once practice is finished, children benefit from having a reason to practice. The promise of future musical success is not Read more…
Parental Involvement. Though not always practical, it is highly beneficial for parents to be involved in their children’s lessons. When parents attend lessons with the child (as an observer – be careful to not interrupt the teacher), the child always practices better and progresses faster. In addition, young children need Read more…
It is a rare (and perhaps nonexistent) student who never comes unprepared to a music lesson. Summer is especially hard, with camps, vacations, sports activities, and freedom from structure. As both a parent and a music teacher, I have found it a challenge to create incentives that inspire a young Read more…