Why 6 is a Great Age to Start Leaning Music {From A Music School owners point of view}
Why 6 Years of Age?
When we get children started on learning any instrument there has to be a few things which are going to work for the teacher, the parents and mostly the student. The ideal outcome in that every student who starts music falls in love instantly, is able to pick up all the concepts straight away and practice hygiene is impeccable!
How often do you think this happens? Much less than you expect but why? When you start music you are learning a whole new language, new mechanics and changing the way you perceive music. You start to learn about Bars, Time Signatures, Tempo, Keys, Notes and Dynamics. All of these concepts have their explanations. The more advanced you get the deeper you can dive into them.
For us, at 6 a student has gone through 1 - 2 Years of School where they learn concepts like the alphabet, sounds of words and letters as well as visual understanding of writing. These idea’s help our teachers to communicate the language of Music. From understanding the notes/letters on the stave, the division of time within a bar or the tempo. At age 6, these concepts are easier to grasp for a student which makes their growth easier.
At this age there are a few other things which help with the lessons, a 6 year old has an improved attention span, their motor skills are more developed and also their understanding of the teacher/student relationship has been fostered through regular school.
What developmental milestones make age 6 a suitable starting point for music education?
Around age 6, children typically reach a developmental stage where they can comprehend basic musical concepts, follow instructions, and engage actively in the learning process.
Fine motor skills necessary for playing instruments, such as finger dexterity, coordination, and hand-eye control, are more developed, facilitating the early stages of instrumental learning.
Cognitive abilities, including memory and auditory processing, are at a stage where children can start forming a solid foundation in music theory and appreciation.
Can student’s start earlier than 6 for instrumental lessons?
Yes! Some student have the capability to understand the concepts needed to get someone started in Music before 6. In my experience I have found that the children of Musicians who have exposed to music from a young age have a tendency to grasp Musical concepts a little younger. For others they struggle until they are a bit older.
There are fantastic pre-instrumental classes available (sadly no in Blanch Music) which help students grow their understanding of rhythm, melody, timing and pitch. If you are interested in these types of classes look for programmes like; Pathway to Music, Bumblebee Music Classes, Parent & Child Music Classes and it should give you a list locally of some great service providers.