Five Ways to Support Your Child's Music Education

Like most music teachers, I have a large number of young students. Over the years I've watched with interest to see what works and what doesn't, both in my own teaching and also in the way parents encourage and support their children's musical education. As a father of three young musicians myself I know some of the challenges parents face as they endeavor to encourage effective practice and keep their kids interested. Here are 5 ways I've discovered to more effectively lead children along the path to musical success and enjoyment:

1. Make sure it's about them, not you. Whether you are a top-notch musician yourself, have never played an instrument or quit lessons as a child after only a few years of taking them, do not attempt to live vicariously through your children and do not place the burden of resolving your issues or achieving your dreams on them. Let them be themselves, and understand that learning to play an instrument isn't necessary for health or happiness or success in life. Although it can certainly contribute to all three.
2. Be involved. There are a number of approaches parents can take when choosing their level of involvement in lessons. I have some parents who sit and watch every lesson in its entirety every week. Other parents have almost no interaction with me. The right balance will vary from student to student, but I love it when parents ask me questions about what their kids are practicing, how they're doing and how they as parents can help. I love being able to talk about different teaching approaches and learn from parents what is and isn't working. I also love to hear honest feedback about how easy or difficult it is to get children to practice and whether or not they are enjoying their lessons. It takes the guesswork out of my job.
3. Be understanding. Some parents and teachers take a very militaristic approach to music lessons. While the choice of music teachers and the tone at home is entirely the parent's domain, I do not subscribe to the theory that misery now leads to joy later. There's a time to push and there's a time to punish, but those should be the exceptions and not the rule. If a child is resisting practice, a small change may be all that is needed. Perhaps a different time of day, a different learning method, better songs or some kind of reward system could make the difference. If these approaches continue to meet with resistance, talk with the teacher and see what other options are available. As a last resort, consider changing teachers or instruments before giving up on music altogether.
4. Be an example. If you play, play often and let your children hear you. If you don't play, consider taking lessons right along with them. Your example is far more powerful than your words, and it's never too late to learn.
5. Fill their lives with music. Taking your children to concerts lets them see what music study can do for them. Listening to great music helps them develop a good ear. Being exposed to a variety of genres allows them to choose their own path. Whether or not your children become professional musicians, they will experience lifelong benefits from the music education you've provided.