Why Should I Send My Child to Private Music Lessons?

by | Dec 27, 2014 | Band, Music Lessons, Orchestra

“Why should I send her to private music lessons? My daughter is in her school band.”

A fair question—one you yourself may have asked. My daughter is learning how to play her instrument in band or orchestra class—doesn’t that setting provide sufficient instruction?

First of all, let me say I have the utmost regard for band and orchestra teachers. Whether at the elementary, middle or high school level, they work hard, inspire their students and—semester after semester—help their classes perform as cohesive units.

But that’s not enough for a music student. Private music lessons with a skilled instructor provide benefits your child won’t find in a class setting.

Let me share a handful:

The Benefits of Private Music Lesson

  1. Personalized training

    Every child learns in her own way, at her own pace. Private music lessons can provide instruction that meets the specific learning style of each child.

    In band class, the teacher is trying to bring 30 students along, and can’t possibly tailor his instruction for each student—and if your student can’t keep pace, she’ll only fall further and further behind.

    One-on-one music lessons are all about finding ways to help your child learn in the way that works best for her.

  2. Guaranteed success

    With a private instructor, a child learns much more quickly the fundamentals of playing. A solid foundation is established, and the student can keep learning, playing and succeeding—and that’s fun!

    The child builds confidence and determination, not to mention the desire to continue playing.

  3. Instant feedback

    When a student isn’t doing something correctly, it’s not likely to be detected and addressed in orchestra class. There’s just too much going on for the teacher to focus on each student’s performance.

    With private music lessons, corrections and advice—as well as praise and encouragement—are delivered instantly and constantly.

  4. Effective practice 

    Every young musician needs to learn how to practice. A student spends hours each week practicing, and that time needs to be well spent.

    A good private instructor will send the student home weekly with the proper practice skills so the student gets the most out of practice time. Just as important, the student won’t dread practice time, because he’ll have control over it and can expect results.

  5. Less frustration, more motivation

    If a student is having trouble or feeling frustrated, the one-on-one attention he gets at a private music lesson will more likely result in a solution. And students who have been performing for more than a few years find it a lot easier to stay focused with the help of a private instructor.

    Once past the beginner stages, a music student may not know where to go next. A private instructor can help the student discover what new music to explore and what goals to pursue. Sometimes all a student needs is someone to report to on a regular basis, so he knows he’s accountable.

I could go on and on, but I’ll stop here.

Let me just emphasize that private music lessons are for every student, not just those hoping to pursue a career in music. A private instructor can make learning and mastering an instrument fun, increasing the likelihood of success and satisfaction for your son or daughter.

If you’d like to read more about the value of private music lessons for your child, here are three very interesting links:

Want to help your child practice without daily battles? Come to our workshop!

“Parent Talks: Practice 101″ presented on September 12th at 9:00-10:00am in Western Springs, IL

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