There has been no shortage of change – unexpected change – this year, and with the change comes tremendous stress, uncertainty and disruption. Plans cancelled, events postponed, schedules totally irrelevant.
In the early weeks of Covid, many of us thought this disruption would end by April. As time, and uncertainty continues, we have modified our behavior to accommodate the ‘new normal’. That means most of our interactions are virtual, and our activities are carried out remotely.
Parents want what’s best for their child, and music teachers want what’s best for their student. By working together, parents and teachers can provide the best musical learning environment, both at home and at school, for students.
When we talk playing an instrument, we often think of electric guitars, or keyboards. But one of the top ten instruments people love to play, four of them are wind instruments: the clarinet, flute, saxophone and harmonica.
Music lessons can play an incredible role in your child's life. Not only do they encourage burgeoning talent and foster a sense of perseverance and accomplishment, but they also have the potential to offer far-reaching social, emotional, and academic benefits that can prepare children for success.
Many of us identify with a particular genre depending on our age, or admittance to an exclusive club: Middle school pop, later, metal or hip-hop, perhaps Goth, house, blues, country or that good old-time rock ‘n roll. Early adopters smugly claim they new a certain type of music or band first, and can be territorial about their discovery. Often once the artist goes mainstream, those same early adopters back away.
Kids – and adults – long for hobbies, sports, art, communing with nature, the activities that are often rewards for completing those necessary school and work tasks. Without them, life isn’t as fun, and people aren’t as well-rounded. In these strange days, taking up, or continuing to make music is one of the best ways to relax, keep the brain stimulated and enhance everyday life. Especially when one day can feel like every other day.