Musical Investments

Recently, I have been having conversations with parents and students in my studio about goals and expectations. When the older students have more homework each school year, or the beginning student is resisting practicing at home, it is normal for parents to ask, “Is continuing with music lessons worth it.” The answer is yes, and and the reason is because the musical skills and life skills are worth the investment.
                  When you invest in music lessons, and your child invests time in practicing, it is just that: an investment. And the investment is not only into learning the skill of playing the piano, but it is also an investment into the life skills of setting long and short term goals, cultivating daily habits, critical thinking, and perseverance, and many others.
                  Like monetary investments, the return you get from piano lessons depends on how much you invest.  If your child only practices once or twice in between lessons, they will not get much enjoyment out of lessons and their musical progress will be slow. For a visual reference, look at this chart a teacher created and gave me permission to share:
                  You may be reading this thinking, “I agree with these reasons, but I am overwhelmed and don’t enjoy the power struggle when I suggest practicing.” Here are some practical suggestions for parents and students who are trying to fit in daily practicing:




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You may be reading this
thinking, “I agree with these reasons, but I am overwhelmed and don’t enjoy the power struggle when I suggest practicing.” Here are some practical suggestions for parents and students who are trying to fit in daily practicing:

• Make it a goal to touch the piano every day
• Put a jar on the piano, and each time your child practices, put a penny or marble in it. When the jar is filled, do something special to celebrate.
• Leave  a coloring sheet or checklist on the piano, and color an object or put a check for each day of practicing.

 
Please, do not allow your child to quit because things are difficult. The rewards of playing music are worth the investment. 















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