Most of my best childhood memories were spent learning to read music and playing a musical instrument. From the time I was eight years old, I was in some form of music class. In high school, one of my favorite activities was playing the clarinet in band. Even after graduation, I played my instrument from time to time until I lost it in my move.
I hoped one day my daughter, too, would be privileged with music classes in school. Unfortunately, many public schools have discontinued music and arts classes. This is sad because children who appreciate art see the world from a different perspective. Many parents still want to expose their children to music and want to find an instrument that is right for them. The following article talks about some of the best musical instruments for children.
The piano is usually the first instrument most children play, either willingly or reluctantly. However, there are a number of benefits to playing the piano. Playing the piano helps children fine tune their concentration skills because they have to coordinate their eyes, hands and feet. Piano playing also makes children smarter because they improve their reading and listening skills. Although I moved on to another instrument, for me, the piano was the best way to learn how to read music because some other instruments don’t use both the treble and base clef.
Many parents might disagree, but the drums are also the best musical instruments for children. From the times they are babies, children like to bang on things that make noise. Most parents have had instances where they have to take pots, pans and spoons from their little ones. Like the piano, the drums help concentration skills. They also help wrist and arm coordination and a person’s sense of timing. Unlike the piano, where reading music is essential, a young drummer can learn the basics before reading music. However, remember that you can’t call yourself a true musician if you can’t read notes.
The xylophone is also good introductory instrument. It combines elements of the piano and the drums. Thus, all of the skills mentioned above blend together for this unique instrument. Another element of the xylophone is that many of them are etched with the letters that represent their respective notes. Unlike the piano and drums, you can find children’s xylophones at a cheaper price than a small keyboard or drum set.
Once children learn the basics of these instruments, they can move on to something in the stringed instrument family, such as the violin, guitar, or cello. Or, parents may consider introducing their children to a woodwind instrument, such as the flute or my favorite the clarinet.
For a number of years, educators have stated that learning to play a musical instrument translates to a child’s ability to succeed academically. Personally, I agree because my exposure to music even helped me in classes with which I struggled. Although parents want their children to be involved in music, let the child decide what instrument he or she wants to play, even if the learning process does not bring pleasant noise. If it sound that bad, do what my parents did and close the door to the children’s bedrooms or send them outside. But, still be supportive of their efforts.
