Looking back on my own experiences as a piano student, I remember fondly the hours I spent practicing from week to week. My parents never had to set a timer for me to practice my necessary assignments.I eagerly hopped on the bench before and after school, excited to play of my own free will. However, my parents certainly did other subtle things that fueled my love and dedication to music. So for all the parents who are wondering how to constructively participate in your child's musical progress outside of their piano lessons, I hope my insights can be of some help.
Show a genuine interest in what your child is learning in lessons. If you are interested and excited about it, they will be too. Ask your child throughout the week what they're learning; ask them to show you or explain any new concepts. Explaining something is a great way for them to solidify a concept more thoroughly. After they've finished practicing/performing something, ask "What's that you were playing? It's beautiful".
Encourage your child to be in charge of their practice schedule, while keeping an eye on how much they are practicing. Enforcing set times, rigid schedules, or using a timer can create feelings of dread and resentment about practicing. Try to approach your child at all times with the concept that music is about a journey of discovery for them as well as yourself, not a mandatory activity.
If you're not already familiar with basic music history, do a little research online and educate yourself. Then surprise your child with fun historical tidbits about the composers or songs they are playing. Learning about the historical context of musical concepts, styles and details about the composers can often bring the music to life in a new way.
Take time to sit down near the piano and just listen inobtrusively while your child is practicing. Often, knowing someone is listening develops pride, confidence, inspiration, and validation in students. If you show your enjoyment while you listen, this helps to show children the therapeutic benefits of music, and the power of music to touch the musician's and listener's heart.
Last but not least, your attitude about your child's piano lessons and practicing plays a vital role in your child's attitude. They certainly don't want to feel that they are displeasing anyone, most of all their parents. Remember, music is about the more spiritual, subtle, and unseen elements of life; music is many things, but it is not a popularity contest or a competition with anyone else. Any achievement, whether you think it is great or small, should be highly praised and greatly encouraged. There is no official standard or age at which a student should be playing certain pieces. Music is a privilege and an individual journey, so celebrate you and your child's experiences in the musical world.
-Joe Backer
Backer Piano Studio offers quality piano instruction in the Cincinnati area.
Click here for more information.
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