Did you know that piano can increase brain function? It is one of the only activities that uses both the left and right hemispheres.
You might’ve seen those videos online of 3-year-old’s playing Mozart Piano Concertos. This might’ve had you asking, “should I sign my child up for piano lessons?”
The short answer is yes. Playing piano has many benefits for children and adults. But there are a few things you must consider before signing up your child for piano lessons. The largest factor in this decision is age.
Piano lessons are an opportunity for your child to express creativity and fulfill their social-emotional learning needs. Are you interested in learning about the best age to start piano lessons? Keep reading to learn more!
What are Piano Lessons Like?
A piano lesson consists of a student and their music instructor. There will be one to two keyboards/pianos in the room and your child will have supplemental books to work from.
In the best piano lessons, your child will be playing from day one.
There are fundamentals you must learn when playing piano such as scales and arpeggios. Your child will be learning the foundation needed for works from composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Bach. They will also have the opportunity to learn popular music.
Things to Consider
Age is a very general factor when determining if your child is ready for piano lessons because all children develop differently. Here are four things to consider that can be determined on an individual basis.
1. Hand Size – The best method of measuring hand size is to see if they can place each finger on five adjacent white keys. This is basic hand position for piano. Your child will need to accomplish this before moving on.
Even some five-year-olds may have trouble doing this!
2. Finger Coordination and Dexterity – In order to play the piano, a musician needs to move their fingers independently. To see if your child can control their individual fingers, ask them to hold their hands up and wiggle one finger at a time.
If you have a piano at home, you can also ask them to play three individual notes using three different fingers.
3. Reading Level – Though your child will not need to read paragraphs of a book, they will have to recognize symbols and remember what they mean. Sheet music is what they will use to read music. There are multiple symbols, numbers, and letters that are involved.
4. Interest in Learning – The most important factor is if your child is interested in piano lessons. Their inner motivation will help them through their journey. But if you’re pushing them to start learning, it can cause a lot of friction in your relationship.
Piano Lessons Sacramento
Generally, there isn’t a specific age that your child should start piano lessons. Though, some may notice the previous four categories develop around ages 6-8.
Piano is a skill that can help your child along the course of his or her life. It is important to note that music isn’t only supplemental, but something every child should have the right to experience.
The Music Lab in East Sacramento offers lessons on many different instruments, including piano. If your child doesn’t want to start piano, they can try guitar lessons, for example. If you’re interested, take your free trial lesson today!