Do Children Under the Age of 5 Need Music Lessons?

When you hear a parent talking about enrolling their three-year-old in a musical program, what do you think? There is some slight controversy over this issue. Some parents think children five and under can't learn much from music lessons and parents are wasting money by putting them in lessons too young. There is also a belief in some parents that those who register small children for music lessons are stage parents pushing their little...

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Why Basic Music Theory Is Essential To Any Good Piano Tutorial

Music theory, many would argue, is an essential part of playing any musical instrument. However, when once looks at many of the various piano tutorials out on the market and even online, they do not find a mere mention of the concept. The theory and study of music is one of the most essential elements to the growth of the art form. This article is in defense of theory lessons, rather than simple monotonous instruction of the piano or...

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The Relationship of Folk Music to Classical Music

Folk music is the music of a nation, culture or ethnic group. Each such group has its own characteristics, which includes such things as behavior, food, language, history, traditions, etc. The music and dance reflect these aspects and, as aesthetics, are communicated with soul. Folk music is almost like a language that tells of the various victories, hardships, sorrows and other survival factors that have transpired, usually over centuries....

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When Should My Child Begin Music Lessons? A Comparison of Waldorf and Suzuki Philosophies

I am a trained Waldorf early childhood teacher and have also completed training as a "Music Together" teacher (a music and movement program for preschoolers and their parents) through the Center for Music and Young Children in Princeton, NJ. In addition, I am a Suzuki parent and a strong supporter of Suzuki music education. I have been interested in comparing the similarities and differences between Suzuki and Waldorf pedagogy ever since discovering...

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Is a Music Teacher the Best Way for You to Learn Guitar?

Before you can answer this question let's address a number of other issues first. All of us are drawn to the guitar for many reasons and objectives. For most, it's safe to say, the desire to play for our own benefit is the primary reason for investing the many hours it takes to become proficient. It is an avocation; a fun way to challenge yourself. We have no intentions of playing the instrument in front of a group or in a group. If...

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