So your child is interested in music? (Or maybe you are a potential student yourself?) Welcome to BIMS, where we feel that music truly is for everyone. We do our best to offer enriching, joyful musical experiences for all of our students, as well as help them achieve their musical goals and fulfill their individual potential. Here we offer some pointers on how students can get the most out of their music lessons.
1. Instruments: It is possible to start lessons even without having an instrument at home, but we strongly recommend finding an instrument for your child as soon as possible. They will be excited about what they learn in their lessons and they will be very motivated to play at home. With an instrument at home they will develop faster and this in turn gives them more inspiration.
2. Practice: The top question we hear from parents is, “How much should my child practise?” It is best to talk about this with your child’s teacher, but there are some general guidelines. In general, children should be encouraged to “say hello” to their instrument frequently but not have time limits set at first. Also, if your child is enjoying other musical experiences, such as singing, dancing, listening to music, or trying different instruments, please encourage this activity as well, because it is all part of their musical growth. Music is a great activity in many different ways, and your practice habits should fit your personal musical goals. BIMS supports all individual approaches to music, from keeping it as a hobby to making it into a profession. If there is interest in a professional music career we can provide the tools and guidance to get there but it also means more lesson time and more practice time at home.
3. How parents can help: Especially with younger children, parents may find it useful to visit the lessons once in a while so that they can help the children practise at home. Even if you have never played this instrument you will be able to help if your child needs it. Also, children need some free time each day so that they can enjoy playing and practising without stress.