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When is the Best Time to Begin Flute Lessons

February 3, 2015 Flute

When is the Best Time to Begin Flute Lessons

There is a great deal of debate concerning when the best time is to take up a musical instrument – will you learn better as a young child? Or will adulthood help you to become a better player? It is definitely useful to know the reasoning behind these arguments before you begin your flute lessons but you shouldn’t let it distract you from your learning; every age will bring a different perspective and benefit to their lessons.

Motivation

First and foremost, what is your motivation for taking up the flute? Or if you are a parent, why do you want your child to start music lessons? If you intend to attempt grade examinations, it is always beneficial to start young. Children have the benefit of youth which often means they’ll start their lessons confidently and be more open to learning new skills. It’s often harder for adults to take quite as naturally to their instruments as they tend to bring more baggage to their lessons – i.e. the fear of failing in a new discipline or bad memories of past exams. The fact that children tend to have more confidence in their playing, at least when they are starting out, should mean that they will cope well with the pressure and expectations of grade exams.

Commitment

Committing to practising and looking after your instrument are incredibly important if you want to progress in your learning and make the most of your flute lessons. This is where being an adult tends to have the advantage over being a child – as an adult, you will have chosen to begin your lessons and so will presumably be committed to your practise and progression with the flute. When it comes to children, often they will just be undertaking lessons because their parents want them to learn an instrument, rather than having a real desire to learn themselves. As such, it can be difficult to encourage them to practise and look after their flute which could mean that their mastery of the instrument takes much longer than it would take a committed adult.

The importance of teaching

As ever, it is imperative that you choose the right teacher who will bring out the best in you, whatever your circumstances. If you’re a parent looking for the right teacher for your child, it’s a great idea to research teachers who particularly specialise in teaching children. They’ll be able to work together well and the teacher will encourage your child to practise even if they’re usually disinterested. Similarly, if you’re an adult looking to partake in lessons which are a bit more relaxed than the lessons of someone hoping to get ahead in their grades would be, you’ll find plenty of teachers who are happy to cater to your style. Some teachers offer a trial lesson to ensure that you’ll work well together and this is an excellent opportunity that you should take advantage of.

Whatever age you are, if you are passionate about learning, it will always be a good time to start your flute lessons. Both young and old are able to bring something unique to their learning and, as long as you have a good teacher, you’ll be able to enjoy and progress a long way in your flute playing.

Do not hesitate based on just your age. Your decision on whether or not to take up flute lessons should mainly be due to your love of music and this remarkably easy to learn instrument. Do your research and ask around for the best teacher. Whatever you decide, you are sure to harness a lot of benefits from taking music lessons.

What Makes a Good Saxophone Teacher?

February 3, 2015 Saxophone

What Makes a Good Saxophone Teacher?

It’s really important when you decide to start learning a new instrument that you pick the best teacher for you who is going to be focused on getting the best from you and helping you progress. Your saxophone teacher should not only have all the right credentials for the job but also should be the right fit for you and your learning style. Let’s have a look at a few of the things you should be looking out for.

Experience

If you’re serious about learning the saxophone, you want to make sure that your teacher is serious about teaching you. Before you choose your teacher, you should make sure that they have the appropriate accreditation for teaching the instrument as well as plenty of experience as both a performer and a teacher. Why as a performer? Although you don’t want your teacher to be cancelling your lessons due to a last minute gig, previous experience performing the saxophone means that they’ll be able to give you a unique perspective on the instrument in addition to providing you with some inspiration. It will also be beneficial if you check that they teach full-time or at least that this is their primary job; you don’t want to be taught by someone who’s just doing it in the evenings for fun and a bit of extra money. You want someone who is going to be committed to you and your learning. That leads nicely on to my next point…

Focus and organization

It’s imperative that your teacher is organized so your lessons are well structured and no time is wasted during the lesson working out what you should be doing. Preparation on the teacher’s part is the key! This is generally one of the benefits of working with an experienced saxophone teacher; they will be well aware of the importance of organization in delivering a good lesson. If your teacher is well prepared and has organized the structure of your lesson in advance, making sure that they have everything they need, they will be in a much better position for the lesson itself where they will be able to focus entirely on you and your learning.

A good fit for you

Arguably the most important trait to look out for when you’re choosing a music teacher is making sure the teacher is a good fit for your personality and learning style. If you are after a more relaxed style of lesson, look around to find a teacher who can give that to you. Conversely, if you’re after a stricter schedule, possibly working towards grade achievements, then you’ll need to find a teacher willing and able to offer you that. Helpfully, many teachers offer a trial session where you can spend some time with them to discuss what you’re after and what you’re intending to achieve from your lessons. It’s also important to sort out the practicalities: is your dream teacher in a good location for you? Can they offer you the lesson time that you need?

So there you have it – there are lots of things to consider when choosing the perfect teacher to provide your saxophone lessons. Make sure you find out if they have credible experience, an organised and focused approach and, most importantly, whether they’ll be the perfect fit for you and your learning style.

Do not stop with just their credentials. Make sure you also check out how they do in the above aspects. You may interview previous students of your shortlisted saxophone teachers and get their inputs and opinions. It is important to get as many feedback as you can from as many people as you can.

The Quest for Ideal Violin Teachers: Best Qualities and Qualifications (Part 2 of 2)

February 3, 2015 Violin / Viola

The Quest for Ideal Violin Teachers: Best Qualities and Qualifications (Part 2 of 2)

In part 1, we went through some qualities and qualifications of a good violin teacher.

An employee who is applying for a job is required to submit a resume or curriculum vitae. It gives the employer an overview of the applicant’s educational background, skills, and work experiences. In a similar manner, parents who are looking for violin teachers for their children, may do the same. Or find a way to get such information.

Teaching is a profession. It requires one to have professional credentials. As a parent, you want to entrust your child only to a professional who can impart knowledge and provide training methods for your child’s violin skills and development.

Having a set of qualifications in mind could help you size-up your prospective teachers. Here’s a listing of credentials that could help you decide who’s the best man or woman for the job.

Checklist for Evaluating the Qualifications of a Prospective Violin Teacher:

KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge could come from both educational background and experience. Does the teacher have a music degree or has taken a music course? Does the teacher have sufficient knowledge due to a vast experience in playing and teaching violin? Violin lessons include music theory and other violin facts and figures that could make the lesson interesting. Is the teacher equipped to pass on his/her knowledge to your child?

EXPERIENCE: Experience could be gained through time and ample exposure. How long has he/she been teaching violin? Does the teacher have experience in teaching your child’s age bracket? A teacher’s experience is valuable in handling the learning challenges your child may encounter while playing the violin.

SKILL: It is important that a violin teacher should have mastery of skills in playing the violin. Someone who could play what he preaches, so to speak. He/ she should be able to actually demonstrate or execute the violin theories and playing techniques to small children and beginners in an understandable manner.

PERFORMANCE AND SHOWMANSHIP: A teacher can inspire and motivate his / her violin students by performing for them. Showing them ‘the big picture’ could encourage them and make them appreciate the value of those repetitive drills and exercises.

REPUTATION: If you have a short-list of teacher candidates who are all almost on equal standing, their reputation could stand as the deal breaker. Go out of your way to get feedback from other past and present students. Investigate the reasons some students quit or transfer to other teachers or music schools. Research for any review or feedback online. Take a peek at the teacher’s Facebook or social network accounts. It could reflect his/her character and personality.

AVAILABILITY: Does the teacher have regular teaching days and time slots? Find out his lesson cancellation ratio. Irregular schedules could stall your child’s learning pace and progress.

FEE: Is the professional fee within your budget? Is the amount commensurate with the qualifications and skills of the teacher? Evaluate the budget you could afford without sacrificing the quality of your child’s education and training.

The search for the right violin teachers require time and effort. You should be resourceful and creative in getting information. You should ask lots of questions to and about the prospective teacher. Do your own research. Investigate. Negotiate.

Finding the perfect teacher for your child could be easy if you know what to look for. These guides should cut by half the process for you. Money is hard to come by these days so be wise and invest in true fashion in your child’s education, whether academic or musical. Violin lessons will definitely give our child advantages now and in the future. So go ahead and scout for your child’s violin teachers now.

Top Reasons Why Ukulele Lessons Are Easy And Fun

February 3, 2015 Guitar / Ukulele

TOP REASONS WHY UKULELE LESSONS ARE EASY AND FUN

A child learns best when he is having fun. He may also gain more confidence in pursuing learning new skills when the initial steps are easy. If you are thinking of a ‘kid-friendly’ music instrument, the ukulele could be your best bet. Ukulele lessons are ideal for younger children who will be learning a musical instrument for the very first time.

The ukulele or ’uke‘ for short, belongs to the family of stringed instruments. The uke is the guitar’s ‘little brother’. They look quite the same, and playing methods are similar too. Both are played using chords and produce sounds by strumming the strings. However, the ukulele is smaller and only has four strings.

Reasons why the ukulele could be a simple yet exciting musical instrument for your child:

Less Strings: With only four strings, your child’s tiny hands and fingers could easily handle and reach the strings and the uke’s fret board.

Soft Strings: Other stringed instruments like the guitar or banjo have strings made out of steel for better sound quality. Handling steel strings require more force and pressure. Pain and stress could be a deterrent or it may even be traumatic for your child. The uke has nylon strings. Thus, it is softer and more manageable for your children’s small and delicate fingers.

Simple, Easy to Play Chords: Your child could easily execute a ukulele chord with just one finger. And yes, he can actually play a song using those one-fingered chords. With proper guidance from ukulele teachers and ample practice, kids would also find playing the two and three finger chords a piece of cake!

Easy to Strum: The four soft strings of the ukulele make strumming easy and almost effortless for children. Young kids could readily pick up the rhythm and do coordinated strumming with the single-finger and simple chord patterns.

Lightweight and Compact: Your child’s small body frame could easily carry this light-as-feather instrument. The size of the ukulele is a perfect fit on your child’s small hands and tiny fingers. He could easily grip the neck and fret board. He could wrap his arms round the uke’s body frame while reaching to touch the strings for strumming.

Convenient and On-The-Go: You can play the ukulele practically anytime, anywhere. It could easily fit into a bag or you could just carry it with your hands. Perfect for road trips, bonfires, or just chillin’ with family or friends. An impromptu jamming or sing-along could develop confidence in performing before an audience.

Appealing and Heartwarming: A ukulele is a “cute” instrument. It does not look intimidating in the eyes of a child. It has that loveable appeal. Kids can easily hold and cuddle it. It has a lilting sound that brings joy and cheer.

Ease in Transitioning to a Guitar: The principles of playing the ukulele is very similar to that of a guitar or other stringed instruments. Thus, making your child more capable of handling and adjusting to the complexities of guitar playing.

Ukulele lessons for your child could heighten his interest in music. He may seriously pursue it. Or it could even serve as a springboard for him to explore and venture into other musical instruments. Either way, your child would definitely enjoy and have fun learning it.

Adults would also find this fun to learn while supervising their children’s ukulele lessons. With the simple chords and strumming techniques of this wonderful instrument, most adults can play it just by idly looking on or sitting in in your child’s classes. Take the lessons and have fun learning the ukulele with your kids now!

THE VIBRATO: How It Helps In Classical Singing Lessons

February 3, 2015 Singing

THE VIBRATO: HOW IT HELPS IN CLASSICAL SINGING LESSONS

You may have observed that singers use a handful of singing techniques during a performance. Now let’s pull out one of their tricks out of the hat and analyze it – let’s discuss the vibrato. This vocal technique is particularly associated with or used in classical singing lessons. Although pop and jazz singers have also used the vibrato in certain portions of their songs.

What Is A Vibrato?

According to Wikipedia, a vibrato ’is a musical effect consisting of a regular, pulsating change of pitch.’ Other techniques associated with a vibrato include ‘fluctuations of a pitch’, ‘a warble’, ‘a wobble’ or ‘a tremolo-like effect.’ When you hear a singer’s voice slightly changing pitch while sustaining a certain note at a particular part of a song, he/she is singing with a vibrato. This pitch fluctuation sounds like a very faint tremble of the voice.

The Vibrato Effect

A song becomes truly meaningful to a listener when it is sung with emotion. A singer can express emotions through the ebbs and flows of his voice. The vibrato is a way of enunciating emotions through the sound and tone of the voice. The vibrato produces a warm and calming effect. It enriches and enhances certain parts of a song.

More Vibrato = Better Singer?

Students of classical singing lessons have somehow imbibed this belief that a classical singer should extensively use the vibrato. Singers of other genres also fall into the trap, believing a vibrato would make your voice sound better. Hence, you think it makes you a better singer. As a result, vocalists do a vibrato overkill. In the use of the vibrato, ‘less is more.’ The vibrato effect works best when it is only applied to particular parts of the song to enhance its overall sound. Too much vibrato could override the real essence and emotion of the voice and the song.

How Does Vibrato Happen?

A vibrato happens naturally as a result of strong foundation and proper execution of vocal breathing techniques. The development of a vibrato goes hand-in-hand with good and healthy voice development. In classical singing or even for other contemporary music genres, you may want to learn the techniques of executing a good vibrato.

However, the focal point of the lesson is always about solidifying your vocal placement, tone, and power. Proper body posture and alignment, relaxation, and breath control all have to be in place. When all these are present, a vibrato naturally comes out of your voice. Somehow, you also instinctively apply it to specific parts of the song as the emotion calls for it. The result is a sincere and polished performance.

Using the Vibrato

In singing, you always want to make a good impression. You add those ‘whistles and bells.’ thinking of it as a way to level-up your performance. You may have the tendency to think that learning the vibrato is the be-all and end-all of classical singing lessons. Such is not the case. Get to the core of your vocal power. Tap into your emotions. Release. Let it go, let it flow. The fruit of this discipline is a sweet, flowing and effortless vibrato.

It is very easy to damage one’s vocal chords. Unless you are taking classical singing lessons, it would be wise to keep your vibrato to a minimum when singing classical music to avoid mistakes. If you are planning on being a professional singer, it would be best to take up formal lessons. When you choose to study classical singing, your teachers will definitely give you all the things you need to know in order to effectively and safely use the vibrato.

Guitar Lessons Now. Guitar-Playing Career Later?

January 27, 2015 Guitar / Ukulele

Guitar Lessons Now. Guitar-Playing Career Later?

“The guitar’s all right John, but you’ll never make a living out of it”. Those were the famous words uttered by his Aunt Mimi to the teenaged John Lennon. We know the story. John Lennon proved her wrong. You are not taking guitar lessons ‘just for the sake of playing’, right? Guitar playing may be a hobby for some. But for others, it may lead to something more.

You may be serious about a career that would allow you to play the guitar and get paid for it. Your rock star dreams may not all come true. Yet it is possible to live in a reality where your guitar-playing job could actually pay the bills or give you a decent source of living.

Jobs and Earning Opportunities for Guitar Players:

A Professional Artist / Band

Regular and paid gigs in clubs, coffee shops, restaurants, weddings, cruise ships and other venues can give you a steady stream of income. The discipline and the long practice hours you invested on guitar lessons would definitely help you in this pursuit. This career requires dedication, professionalism, and flexibility.

2. Live Guitar Session Players

This would require you to play with different band members. You may serve as session or substitute guitarist for a touring band or artist. They could hire you for a few hours or a one-night gig. Or you could be in contract for weeks, months or the entire duration of a concert tour.

Guitar Player For Recording Sessions

Record producers usually hire session musicians to record the backing tracks for recording artist’s single or album. Filmmakers or TV producers may hire guitarists to compose and play music scores or soundtracks. While advertising creative directors may require you to compose commercial jingles.

Online Service Or Viral Video Sensation

Earn from your guitar playing skills by uploading ‘demo’ or ‘how-to’ videos related to guitar playing. Moreover, your awesome and unique guitar skills may draw a lot of eyeballs, clicks, views, and shares from social media netizens all over the world. Yes you can earn online, especially from advertising revenue shares from social media platforms like YouTube.

Guitar Teacher

The baton has been passed on to you by your guitar teacher. You can follow the career path of giving guitar lessons in a music school or an online school. Or you could be a private guitar tutor.

Guitar Manufacturer and Repair Person

If you have skilled hands to create and fix guitars, this could be a lucrative business or a good employment opportunity. Guitar skills are a must. You need to be able to play and test if the instrument passes sound quality standards.

Guitar Book Author or Article Writer

No one is credible enough to write about guitars than a guitarist himself. This could be your avenue to share your techniques, tips, and experiences in guitar playing. You earn from book publishing royalties or get paid for every article that you write and publish.

Just like in school, your guitar lessons could give you a simulation of what it takes and what is required of you as a guitar player. From there, you could evaluate your skills and motivations. If John Lennon’s Aunt Mimi would utter the same words to you now, would you be ready to take-up the challenge?

Take advantage of the vast opportunity for a guitar player by taking guitar lessons now. You can be sure that all results will be positive whether you just want to play for your pleasure or to make a career out of it in the future. The friends you will make, the connections you will establish and the fun things you will learn are just a few of the things that will make guitar lessons truly worth your time and effort.

The Quest for Ideal Violin Teachers: Best Qualities and Qualifications (Part 1 of 2)

January 27, 2015 Violin / Viola

The Quest for Ideal Violin Teachers:

Best Qualities and Qualifications (Part 1 of 2)

Parents always want the best for their children. Parents would leave no stone unturned to find the one thing that would make their children succeed in life. Yes, parents would devote time and energy in search of ideal violin teachers. A good teacher is one of the most important factors that could greatly affect and influence your child’s progress.

In your quest to find a good violin instructor, be on the lookout for both ‘qualities’ and ‘qualifications’. Qualities refer to the personal characteristics or attitude that a teacher should possess. It would define how the teacher would interact, motivate, and empathize with his/her student.

Here are some qualities to watch out for in a violin instructor that could give you an indication whether you’ve found ‘the ideal match’ for your kid or not.

Qualities and To Look For In A Violin Teacher:

Patient

“Patience is a virtue”, is an overused cliché. However, it is a disposition that a teacher should never lose when teaching a student. A teacher should have the patience to manage a child’s learning pace. He should have the tolerance for mistakes and the persistence to fine-tune them.

Detail -oriented

Violin lessons are not all about fingering techniques. Body position, proper posture, expression, movement, all come into play. Students may acquire some nuances or bad habits while playing the instrument. A good teacher should be able to spot and address them at once.

Enthusiastic, Inspiring, and Supportive

Happiness, passion, and enthusiasm are contagious. Find a teacher who truly possesses the joy of teaching, someone who is truly passionate about his craft of playing the violin. If your child feels that positive vibe, he will always look forward to his violin classes. Also learning becomes easy when you’re having fun. However, in difficult and challenging moments, a teacher should always be empathic, sensitive, and encouraging.

Perceptive and Flexible

Dr. O. Ivar Lovaas, a renowned clinical psychologist specializing in applied behavior said, “If a child cannot learn in the way we teach, we must teach in a way the child can learn.” Yes, there are established methods in teaching the violin. However, not all children have the same learning abilities. A teacher should be able to identify this and adjust her teaching approach according to the needs of the child.

Compatibility with Your Child’s Personality

There’s a certain mystery to how people naturally get along with someone. Their personalities somehow click instantly. While there are relationships that are built overtime or grow with circumstances. As you talk with your prospective teacher, try to get a feel if he or she could get along well with your child. Interaction and learning is easier when your child is on the same wavelength with his teacher.

A child’s interest and enthusiasm in violin lessons could be likened to his or her fascination with a big and red shiny balloon. It is filled with fiery passion. It could soar to the high heavens. And yet, so vulnerable that one tiny pin could shatter it into pieces. With the above qualities, a teacher should be able to bring out the best in your child and unleash his potential.

Never has there been greater opportunity for a child to learn and love music. By enrolling them in violin lessons, parents not only give their children provident skills, they also help them develop a strong foundation that would help them achieve their full potential mentally, physically, emotionally and socially. Just be sure to look for the right teacher who would be their partner in this endeavour. Be sure to check out part two this article series for more tips and tricks.

Singing Out Of Tune? Break the Habit through Voice Lessons

January 27, 2015 Singing

Singing Out Of Tune? Break the Habit through Voice Lessons

In a singing contest, you usually hear judges say — “you’re flat, or pitchy, or you need to fix your intonation.” That golden ticket would continue to elude you if you don’t get some serious vocal work-ups and workouts. In voice lessons, singing in tune is always the first order of the day. Pitch problems mostly emanate from bad singing habits. And yes, they could be corrected with proper direction and exercises. Here are some bad singing habits to get rid of and vocal exercises you could perform to make you hit those notes and sing in tune.

Bad Singing Habits to Break

Improper Breathing

Your voice teachers could not stress enough the importance of ‘breathing from your belly, singing with your diaphragm.’ Going against this will not give you enough air supply to sustain your voice. Hence, your voice buckles down and misses the right notes.

Improper Posture and Position

Improper posture may block air passages. Proper posture gives you the space for breath flow and control. It is best to stand up, slightly feet apart, and keep your shoulders and neck relaxed. Proper blood flow is essential to enable your voice to shine true.

Muscle Tension

In singing high notes, singers tend to strain their neck too high. This actually has the opposite effect. There is a tendency to go out of tune because it makes singing more difficult. The sound of your voice is constricted and could possibly damage your vocal cords. You should instead, just slightly lift up your chin and flash a smile to relax your facial muscles.
Your mouth, jaw, tongue, and throat should be relaxed. Nerves tighten up your mouth and jaw. Let them loose. Your throat should be expanded and your tongue should be flat. Again, this would allow you to gain better control of air flowing in and out of your body as you sing.

Using Too Much Vocal Force

Most students of voice lessons immediately want to achieve vocal power. Thus, your mindset is to stretch and push the limits of your voice. You sing loudly and belt out. Over-singing is detrimental to your efforts. It forces the notes until it breaks and goes out of tune. Instead, start singing softly until you get the right pitch. It is easier to achieve precision if you have more control of your breath and tone. Increase volume and power gradually.

Power over Passion

It should be the other way around. Passion in your singing should come through. If you feel connected to the song, the feeling helps in empowering your voice with the proper pitch and intonation. Go with the flow of your emotions.
You may have a good voice tone or possess fierce belting power. However, if your tune falls short or overshoots, or goes in wayward directions, it is really disastrous. But fret not. It happens to all singers, even the pros. Taking singing lessons with an experienced teacher could definitely help pinpoint these bad singing habits. They can fine tune your pitch problems. All you need is an open mind, a positive disposition, and a sense of cool confidence that you can hit it.

It will be well to remember that something worth doing is worth doing well. Singing is one of these things. Doing it well means investing time, effort and even money to achieve your highest goals. Enrol in singing lessons and let our teachers guide you in being in tune effortlessly. This could actually be accomplished in just a few weeks when accompanied by discipline, persistence and practice. So what are you waiting for? Go and enrol now!

Flute lessons: Is it better to study one-to-one or in a group?

January 26, 2015 Flute

Flute lessons: is it better to study one-to-one or in a group?

New flautists are faced with the decision of whether they’d prefer to learn one-to-one with their teacher, or alternatively to undertake a group class with their teacher and another student. Both private and group flute classes have their benefits for the emerging flautist; it is just a matter of knowing what will best fit you. Let’s see what the benefits of each of these methods are.

Attention levels

It will go without saying that a student will receive much more personalized attention if they are studying one-to-one with their teacher rather than in a group class. The teacher’s time will be 100% dedicated to the student and will focus entirely on what the student needs to work on and what they want to play. Lessons with two students will obviously see the teacher’s attention and focus divided between them which could negatively impact the students’ learning.

This is an especially difficult situation if the students are playing the flute at different levels; if one student is struggling, it is natural for the teacher to focus on that student leaving the more accomplished player to their own devices. It is imperative that flute teachers ensure that both of their students are of a similar playing level before they begin lessons otherwise they risk boredom for the better player or an overwhelmed student who may be struggling.

Different perspectives

Learning by others’ mistakes is a great benefit when it comes to learning a musical instrument. If you’re undertaking lessons with another student, not only will you have the benefit of your own learning, you’ll also be able to see where they are going wrong and pick up tips from them when they play well. This leads to a more complete understanding of the flute for new students.

Motivation

We are naturally more motivated when we are working with another student as we will compare our own standard of playing against the people we play with. If your lesson partner is moving slightly ahead of you in their flute playing, you will naturally be inspired to work harder and practice more in order to keep up.

In addition, your fellow student is a handy person to bounce ideas off, particularly if you’re too reserved to discuss your thoughts with your teacher (this is particularly applicable amongst younger flute players). Your student partner is in a unique position in that they are in the same boat as you.

Decision Time

Most teachers and experienced players would agree that you need to decide which method of teaching is best for you before you dive straight into private or group classes. If you think that you require intensity and focus from your teacher and may get distracted by another student, it’s definitely best to opt for private flute lessons. However, if you’re in need of a little motivation and particularly if you have mastered the basics of the flute, you may really benefit from the different perspectives on learning that you can glean from an additional student. As ever, it’s important to be open and honest with your teacher so they can make sure that they’re working in a way that’s best for you and your learning, whether or not you decide to opt for private or group classes.

Make the wise decision but do not sweat it too much. The important thing is to enjoy the experience and learn in a manner both enjoyable and enriching. You will benefit more from having the satisfaction of knowing you accomplish your purpose of learning to play music from this wonderful instrument. Take your flute lessons from competent teachers and you will surely learn not just music but lifelong lessons to help you grow intellectually, emotionally and spiritually.

Home or School? Where is best to take your keyboard lessons?

January 26, 2015 Keyboards / Piano

Home or School? Where is best to take your keyboard lessons?

One aspect to consider when taking up the keyboard is whether you’d prefer to take your lessons at home or at your school. There are pros and cons to each method. You just have to know which one will work best for you. Now ; let’s have a closer look at what’s best for you before you start your keyboard lessons.

Practice makes perfect

The benefit of having your lessons at home is that the keyboard you use with your teacher will be the same one you practice on in between lessons. You will be used to how your specific keyboard works (every one is different!) and you’ll probably have a better memory of the skills you learned during your lesson if you’re going to practice on the same instrument. Also, you will probably be more inclined to practice if you have a keyboard at home which is easily accessible and waiting for you to play it.

If you’re taking your lessons at school, however, you’ll have plenty of distractions from your friends and your schoolwork which may stop you getting in all the practice you require between your lessons. Also, you’ll have to share the school keyboard with whoever else wants to play it so you’ll need to make sure you’re organized enough to find out at what times it is available.

School attitude

However, keyboard lessons at school certainly have their merits. When you go to school, you are ready to learn and be productive. This attitude will translate to your music lessons so you’ll really make the most of the time you have with your teacher. If you’re learning at home, chances are you’ll have switched out of learning mode and will be ready to relax; this could mean that you won’t be as productive as you would have been at school. You’ll definitely need to have a good sense of discipline if you decide to take your lessons at home.

Practicalities

Additionally, having lessons at home can present some practical difficulties. Does a member of your family work from home and hate loud distractions? Do you have the space required for a lesson – i.e. a quiet room big enough for the keyboard as well as you and your teacher? At school, this is all resolved for you; there are sound-proof music rooms with the requisite space and technology for you to have a really productive lesson.

Learning at school will also grant you the opportunity to participate in group lessons as well if you think you’d benefit from learning with another student. It is very rare to encounter group lessons being undertaken at home, except for when there are two siblings wanting to play.

The wise decision

So there you have it; if you have the space and discipline to learn at home, then go for it! It will probably be easier to keep up your practice and remember all your new skills. It’s also no problem if practicalities force you to take your keyboard lessons at school instead; chances are, you’ll be more productive and focused away from the distractions that home brings.

Remember that whatever you decide you should not overlook your main objective which is to learn to play this beautiful instrument and make wonderful music to uplift yourself and entertain other people. Whether you want to take this further by playing professionally or make a career out of it is up to you. If you do take that step, you may or may not take additional piano lessons and be an intermediate piano student in the future. Take things slowly but make sure you give your heart to your practice and make the best of this fantastic opportunity.

Learning As A Child Versus Learning As An Adult

January 26, 2015 Saxophone

Saxophone lessons: learning as a child versus learning as an adult

It is a matter of much debate about the benefits of learning the saxophone as a child as opposed to taking up lessons a little later in life as an adult. The short answer is that saxophone lessons are worth investing in at any age; different stages of life offer different perspectives and benefits to learning to play the instrument. Let’s have a look at this issue in more depth…

The confidence of children

It’s a well-known phenomenon that, initially, children tend to take to their music lessons much quicker and with more confidence than adults will do. This obviously isn’t only restricted to learning a new instrument; language learning also falls under this umbrella. Why is this, you may wonder? Adults tend to have more baggage than youngsters when it comes to learning which affects their self-confidence, stopping them taking risks and embracing the saxophone wholeheartedly. Maybe they have some bad memories of their schooldays or are afraid to fail in a new discipline. Whatever the reason, children are free of these insecurities so they often start stronger in their learning.

Life experience

Conversely, adults possess a level of life experience which will enhance their mastery of the saxophone and bring a new perspective to their playing. As they sport a slightly more sophisticated music taste than their younger counterparts, adults are more likely to have become acquainted with the saxophone whilst listening to jazz and classical music. The Duke Ellington Orchestra and Gerry Rafferty are probably not too familiar to many children! Adults’ familiarity with the instrument, great players and fantastic music will certainly help to inspire them when they’re taking their saxophone lessons.

Teacher relations

It goes without saying that a better relationship with your teacher will lead to more effective sax playing and a more harmonious lesson. As an adult learner, you’ll be on more of an equal footing with your teacher and should feel comfortable to speak your mind about learning the way you want to learn. The dynamic of the lesson will be completely different to a child learning with their teacher which will call for a lot more direction and structure from the teacher.

As a parent picking a suitable teacher for your child’s saxophone lessons, it’s important to pick a candidate who’s experienced working with children and knows how to encourage them to play their best. It’s important whatever your age that you make sure you find a teacher that works well with you and will inspire you to give your best when you’re learning the saxophone.

Take advantage of all you could learn

You should be excited to start playing the saxophone whatever age you are as there are benefits to be reaped at every age, whether it’s the confidence of youth or the experience of age. Something to always remember is that it’s imperative to choose the right teacher for you who will encourage you to build on your strengths and embrace your weaknesses during your saxophone lessons.

Finding the right teacher is not easy but with the right criteria you should be able to short list a group of teachers. Ask your friends and family for their recommendation, attend concerts and socialize with other sax lovers. Learn from your friends experiences and listen to their advices.

You may also attend or sit in to some saxophone teachers’ classes if they will let you. See if you like their style of teaching before actually committing to enrolling in their classes. Weigh the costs of private and group lessons fully so you don’t waste money you have earned honestly and with much effort. Good luck and have fun!

Benefits of Piano Lessons for Children

January 16, 2015 Keyboards / Piano

What Will Your Child Learn During Children Keyboard Lessons?

Music is considered as one of the most wonderful ways to express your inner feelings. Learning music involves perfect combination of both art and math. Learning and playing the piano has been a hallmark of many children. The piano is considered as one of the easier beginner instruments by the experts for young kids. You can learn the piano very easily when you start enjoying it. The benefits of taking piano lessons during childhood go far beyond music education and are listed below:

• Increased coordination and improved hand-eye movement:

Piano lessons help children to refine their motor skills, dexterity and coordination. Playing piano involves usage of both the hemispheres of brain and leads to a good hand-eye coordination. The piano requires children to use their both hands in an independent manner so that a coordination can be maintained between them if one is moving very fast while the other is moving very slowly. As a result, a child develops complex thought process.

• Improved concentration: while learning to play the piano, the children need to have more focus and need to think how to have each hand operate separately.

Learning and reading sheet music requires a good concentration and attention. Therefore a child develops good concentration power and becomes more alert. Child learns how to translate the written notes with correct tempo and rhythm into music. Reading and playing of the music and piano allows children to think in both critical as well as creative manner. This skill is very helpful and will assist them during their lifetime when they choose to undertake any task in the future.

• Improved school performance: The benefit that children receive from their piano lessons is that these lessons also help them with their school lessons.

Classroom keyboard lessons leads to long-term enhancement in the spatial-temporal abilities of children. Learning to play a piano can help the children to understand the fundamental concepts behind subjects like science, math, and engineering. It has been noticed that the children who play the piano or any other instrument, score high in their both standard as well as in spatial cognitive development tests. Kids, who play piano, score high in math, especially in areas related to the ratios and fractions.

• Music appreciation: Complete understanding of the process to play piano and learn music forces a child to think about the individual notes and he learns how to make up a complete musical composition.

It engages children in deep understanding of the music complexity. Through piano classes, children get an exposure to the classical music that was like a strange thing for them earlier. Children then start to appreciate the composition and composers like Bach or Mozart. Children begin to appreciate music during their lifetime.

• Being well-rounded: Irrespective of the time duration for which the child learns how to play piano, these lessons are going to help him during his lifetime.

There are many long-term effects of these piano lessons. In addition, they develop skills and knowledge that can help them in the future to play any other instrument easily. Children who undertake the piano lessons develop multiple interests in various hobbies that add to their developing personalities and they become all rounder. Learning and practicing improves the performance level of the children and this practice can extrapolate in many aspects of their individual lives.

• Confidence: Learning and playing the piano requires lot of hard work and dedication.

By showcasing their new talent at piano recitals children can boost their self esteem. These lessons also help children to keep a positive outlook towards the life and how to face difficult tasks. They understand that process of mastering a new skill requires patience and it helps children to develop confidence while taking up new tasks, and not to become frustrated or discouraged. Their confidence boosts up and they develop their own self-esteem that comes from mastering the piano.