At what age can a child learn to play a musical instrument?

Question

Our daughter just turned 4. I'm wondering how early others started thier kids playing piano, guitar, or other instruments.

Answer 1

I've heard 4 years old, probably if she is able to sit for at least 15-30 minutes without getting bored. Does she watch a movie or tv, for at least that long without getting up or getting distracted? good luck how cute.

Answer 2

The arts teaches children analytical skills. For instance in maths you can't feasably ask a child if they like a particular sum, yet in the arts you can ask a child if they like it and then ask them why. This encourages them to think about and analyse what they experience. Specifically why should a child learn an instrument? To begin with it is always good to present children with opportunities. They don't have to take them, but if you don't give them the chance you'll never know if they would enjoy it. Many adults deeply regret they never had the opportunity to learn to play an instrument, either at all or to a good standard. Secondly it develops listening skills. When playing music a child MUST listen and focus their attention in order to achieve the desired result - something not necesarily required in other fields. In addition is also develops motor skills, for instance the skills required to play the piano increases the dexterity of the hands, as well as allowing them to move independently. It also requires the child to do many complex things at the same time - the complex movements required to make the sound, reading the music, analysing the sound made and keeping a strict pulse. Aside from anything else, learning a musical instrument is fun! Children often welcome a break from intellectual study either through sports or music. A child may also achieve a sense of accomplishment at being able to see the progress they make through dedicated practice. Through performance a child can become more confident. What other fields can boast so many benefits in a child's development whilst at the same time being enjoyable? I believe music should no longer be extra-curricular, but have a very firm foundation in the curriculum of every child's education.

Answer 3

Piano or violin are usually the ones they start with. Wind instruments tend to be harder for a small child to use as they don't come in scaled down versions. The school system here starts kids in 4th grade, so about 8. You can also think about trying her in something like a handbell choir so she gets used to reading music and counting time.

Answer 4

Piano is the easiest, especially if you get a keyboard sized for little fingers.

Lessons of once a week with practice for a half hour a day should be sufficient. Kids love the attention, and don't worry too much about creating a prodigy or whatever.

Answer 5

Begin at young ages with maracas, tamborenes, drums and other simple instruments. Then as they get older incorporate more complex ones. Children of all ages really get into making new sounds.

Answer 6

children can learn by ear as early as 2 on simple toy instruments.
By 5 most children can grasp the concept of reading notes.

Answer 7

I'm going to start when my son turns four. I'll probably start with the trumpet and work from there.