Thu, 05 Sep 2024 17:42:30 -0700WeeblyFri, 03 Nov 2023 14:03:21 GMThttps://www.corinnekernmusic.org/blog/play-an-instrument-why-does-it-feel-like-workChoosing and instrument - such excitement! Where did that enthusiasm go? It's normal to hit a slump in the process of learning to play an instrument for many reasons:

•"They don't know what they don't know." There are built-in expectations and assumptions about how to learn a new instrument. As students receive instructions on the basics, they quickly learn that there are a LOT of things about their chosen instrument that they had no idea about, or that they thought would be different (ie. easier) than it actually is.

•"This takes more work than they thought." Yes, we call it "playing" an instrument. In order to master the techniques and skills necessary, it actually takes a lot of work. In fact, it is virtually impossible for students to master the skills and become a confident musician if they only touch the instrument for 25 minutes each week at their lesson.

•"It's embarrassing to practice in front of the family." This is true for some students; there are others who want to be heard all the time! You know your child. Help them find the best path to successful practicing.

These are some of the internal challenges to becoming a good musician. What about the external?

•"My dad/mom makes me practice outside." Or in the basement. Or not at all while he/she is in the house. EVERY great musician started out the way your child sounds today. The ONLY reason they achieved success is because of daily practice. There are no shortcuts!

•"My family is too busy; I don't have time to practice." You expect them to do their homework, don't you? This is homework, too.

•"My child doesn't know what to do and I can't help them." You don't have to be a musician to help them succeed. Everything they need to know was taught and demonstrated during their lesson. The book has everything they need to know to succeed (note names, fingering charts, etc.). Most often, students complain that they don't know what to do because it was  two, three, or even five or six days since their lesson and they haven't touched the instrument since then. Even so, encourage them to open the book and give it a try! They will remember more and more with regular practice at home.

The biggest impediment to success is... not enough practice! You can help them by setting up a daily practice schedule that fits your family. As a beginner, 20 minutes each day is a great place to start. They will build the stamina, skills, and attention span to practice for longer, but that comes later. 

Like the variety of tie-dye shirts on the line, each student is unique. Regardless of their innate talent, their IQ, their motivation, all can succeed and become life-long musicians!]]>