Five Common Mistakes in Music Education for Children
01 Frequently changing teachers
Encountering a good teacher can be quite challenging, as it's something that can't always be sought after. A good start is half the battle of success. However, once a good teacher is chosen, it's best not to switch too often. Of course, if it's a matter of a professional teacher, then changing may be necessary.
02 Using the cheapest instrument
It's widely known that inferior instruments with poor tone and inaccurate pitch can adversely affect a child's auditory senses. Therefore, even when just starting to learn an instrument, it's crucial to invest in a good one. It doesn't necessarily have to be expensive, but it should be of decent quality.
03 Not emphasizing practice efficiency
Practicing an instrument doesn't solely depend on time. Don't assume that a child should sit and practice for over an hour. Even adults may struggle to persistently engage in a tedious activity for an hour every day, let alone children.
04 Having a negative attitude towards plateaus
Every stage of learning an instrument comes with its own plateaus. Parents should mentally prepare in advance for this. It's normal for a child to feel disinterested or reluctant to play during these times. It's essential to communicate more with the teacher, offer encouragement, and continuously try various methods to stimulate the child's interest in learning. As long as the child is willing to attend classes, there's usually no significant issue. It might simply be laziness or reluctance to practice, or it could be emotional difficulties causing psychological withdrawal. At such times, clear rewards and punishments should be established, setting relatively easy-to-achieve goals for the child and offering rewards to incentivize effort.
05 Avoiding stage performances
Music is a performing art, and there are hardly any musicians in the world who are afraid to perform on stage! Children learn music to step onto the stage, which requires extensive practice and overcoming nervousness. When they receive applause and approving smiles, it's the best encouragement for their musical endeavors. As they gain confidence on the piano, this art becomes their pride and joy, serving as their capital for happiness. They won't easily find reasons to give up on themselves.