Piano Guidance
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Is Suzuki method good for kids?

Suzuki method is very popular and it is a great way for younger students to gain confidence and ear training early on. The confidence provided by frequent performances encouraged by the method is also a plus.

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After World War II, Japanese violinist Shin’ichi Suzuki sought to bring beauty to the children of his native country through music. He was taken by the fact that children could learn their native languages at very young ages, yet adults sometimes struggled with learning new languages. He created a teaching method for music he called sainÅ​ kyÅ​iku, or “Talent Education”. It sought to create an environment conducive for young people to learn music without focusing on “reading” music. Today, we call this is the Suzuki Method, and we often get questions regarding its use and value. It may be helpful to know a bit more about the process before specifically requesting a Suzuki Method teacher.

The Suzuki Method

Suzuki made note that children learn to speak by listening, not by reading. They are immersed in an environment where talking in a native language is common, and practiced daily. As children learn to speak, they are rewarded by their parents with praise, better communication, and pride. Similarly, the Suzuki method teaches children to play their instrument without the use of written music. Rather than focusing on reading notes right away, students are taught to use their ears to learn specific pieces. Pre-recorded music is used to accompany the student to help them memorize, with performance as a goal. In the Suzuki method, performances are a part of the learning process and become a natural and enjoyable part of the learning method.

A Combination of Methods

Traditional methods of teaching music introduce a student to sight reading, scales, key signatures, sharps and flats, and other theory right away. Like reading and writing in language, these are necessary components of a well-rounded musician. It is why the combination of traditional and Suzuki methods is common. Today, many versions of Suzuki methods have added sight reading and theory to their programs. Suzuki method is very popular and it is a great way for younger students to gain confidence and ear training early on. The confidence provided by frequent performances encouraged by the method is also a plus. We believe the primary consideration however, is to find the best teacher for your child.

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How early can kids start piano lessons?

What is the best age to Learn TO play piano? The best age to start piano lessons is typically between the ages of 6 and 9-years-old. While older students may have an easier time learning to play, students as young as 6-years-old can also learn since the keys of the piano are easy to operate.

Many children are drawn to the piano from a young age. It’s easy to play, fun to explore, and depending on whether you have a piano vs a keyboard, it can make a lot of different sounds! All fun aside, many parents often wonder what age their child should start piano lessons, especially if they want their kid to get good. At School of Rock, our instructors teach thousands of students how to play the piano every day, and know a thing or two about determining when a student is ready. And while it’s true students of almost any age can learn to play piano, the best age to learn depends on factors unique to each student.

What is the best age to Learn TO play piano?

The best age to start piano lessons is typically between the ages of 6 and 9-years-old. While older students may have an easier time learning to play, students as young as 6-years-old can also learn since the keys of the piano are easy to operate. Depending on the student, even very young children under the age of five can begin to explore the piano. After all, Mozart famously started to play piano at 3-years-old!

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