How old is too old?

A person is never too old to begin music lessons. Most adults who return to lessons later in life find much enjoyment and relaxation in music.

Length of Practice Time

Young children, ages 4-7, may only have the attention span to practice 15 or 20 minutes a day. At about age 8, they can be expected to spend one half hour per day. Students planning on studying music in college should expect to spend 3-5 hour per day practicing. The length of practice each day is not as important as the consistency of practicing every day.

When To Start Music Lessons

Most children are ready to learn an instrument at about age eight, around the time they become readers. However, with the Suzuki method, children can learn piano, violin, cello or guitar starting as early as age three.

Finding a Teacher

When you are looking for a music teacher, it is a good idea to first ask for recommendations from friends. You can also contact the music department of a college or high school in your town. Try to attend a student recital, meet the teacher and hear the students. This will give you a chance to observe how the teacher interacts with the students.

The Suzuki Method

The Suzuki Method was developed by Shinichi Suzuki to teach young children violin. Just as children do not learn how to read before they can speak, with the Suzuki Method students do not learn how to read the music before they have a technical mastery of basic skills. Suzuki lessons require parent involvement, both in the lesson and at home. The Suzuki method also incorporates group lessons into the weekly schedule.