Klarinet Archive - Posting 000379.txt from 1996/03

From: "Anne M. Bell" <AMBGN@-----.EDU>
Subj: even more on young musicians
Date: Thu, 14 Mar 1996 07:29:16 -0500

I think the one thing that we should focus on when trying to decide
what instrument/ what age to start a young child's introduction to music is
the child! It is easy to look back and wish you had been a young prodigy-
I know I do. Unfortunately that isn't how many kids end up. Both my parents
were forced to take lessons. My Grandfather was a professional musician-
that didn't help matters any. My Dad quit as soon as he could convince them
to let him. My Mom was forced to take piano for years- she actually got
to a point of some proficiency. She hated it and remembers absolutely nothing.
Growing up I loved music and begged to take lessons. They were hesitant but
finally let me start clarinet and then piano. Since this was something I
wanted to do I did it well. I think my Dad told me to practice once..
(he didn't want me to go on a date) The rest of the time the problem was
getting me to stop since you couldn't hear much else but the piano in the
house.
I think starting kids in fundamentals which

is done in schools with strong
music programs, is great. We just need to make sure music stays a part of
their life that they enjoy. As for us- that enthusiasm should be contagious.

Anne M. Bell