Practice Every Day

I can't emphasize enough the importance of daily practice. It is so much better to practice a half hour a day than to practice three hours once a week.

Along this same line, it is important to not stop playing the piano for a while, during the summer, over Christmas break, etc. I have found that when students take time off, it always takes several weeks to get back to where we were before.

Musical Expresses What Words Can't

“Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.” 
--Victor Hugo

I remember, as a young teenager, the thrill of composing my first song. I had such difficulty expressing myself in words at that awkward age and I remember marveling that was finally able to express what was in my heart.

Victor Hugo was right.

Music Around the World

Music is enjoyed by people on every continent. Here's a great website that introduces children to music from other lands:

http://www.dariamusic.com

Learn about music and songs from other cultures. Discover how to make our own instruments. A fun website to explore.

Learning to Play Musical Instruments

Last week I subbed in a sixth-grade class that attended a school assembly given by a local junior high band and orchestra. The students loved it. At one point the band leader asked for a raise of hands of those in the band who hadn't had prior experience with a band instrument prior to junior high. Most raised their hands.

It brought me back to my junior high band years. Playing in the band was one of the few high points of my junior high career. So many wonderful, memorable experiences! I played the clarinet and later the bassoon and oboe. I had opportunities to play in small ensembles as well as symphony orchestras and everything in between.

I highly recommend that youngsters consider taking up an instrument--any kind of instrument. It can enhance their creativity. And it's a lot of fun!