Music to child’s ears

The choice of a musical instrument should rest on the one who has to learn to play it
theSun, Tues 3 Mar 2009

MUSIC education is a wonderful gift to give your child. Not only does music help a child in developing her creativity and ability to express, it also helps develop confidence and cognitive skills for better performance in math and science.
When choosing an instrument for your child, be aware that it should be an instrument of his or her choice and not yours.

Be conscious of the reasons behind the choice of instrument. Did you choose it because you personally like how it sounds, or would have liked to play it but did not get the opportunity to when you were young, for instance?

While you may influence her a little, it should ultimately be one that she likes because after all, she will be the one learning and practising on it. A child would be more interested and committed to learning and practising an instrument that she is excited about.

Before deciding on one, show her the different types of instruments from the main categories of strings, brass, percussion and wind so that she can see and know what they look and sound like.

We are all drawn to how an instrument sounds and how it is played and so are children. Listen to music played by orchestras, bands and solo instruments, be it from CDs or at live performances. Discuss with her what you saw and heard, and how the instruments were played in different styles and pieces.

Consider her physical attributes, as some instruments may not be physically compatible. A petite child may not be able to carry a large cello case by herself, let alone play the instrument.

Some wind instruments require suitable lip structure or facial strength to play while others can only be properly played if you have adult teeth. Other instruments may require larger hands and more developed motor skills or dexterity.

Consider your budget for buying the instrument and paying for lessons. If you are not sure your child is committed, consider borrowing or renting first.

When buying, consider one of average quality that serves the purpose rather than splurge on a top-of-the-line or concert model. You can always upgrade later when your child shows more commitment and has made progress.

Playing a musical instrument should be fun and pleasurable. Find out what kind of music interests your child and if she prefers to play alone or in a group like a band or orchestra.

It is no use forcing her to learn the violin and play classical pieces when she enjoys making rocking rhythm on the drums more.

If you can, get a professional or a teacher of the instrument she is interested in to assess if she can be taught to play it considering her age, size and aptitude.

Finally, do not fall into the trap of stereotyping. There is no rule that says every child must start with the piano or violin, or if a particular instrument is more suited for a boy or girl.


Anna sometimes gets tired of defending the fact that it is all right for a girl to learn the drums at age four-plus. Her parenting articles here are compiled in http://youmekids.blogspot.com.