Klarinet Archive - Posting 000213.txt from 1997/08

From: "Craig E. G. Countryman" <cegc@-----.net>
Subj: Re: How Young....
Date: Wed, 6 Aug 1997 18:16:27 -0400

I am just of the opinion that we can always teach kids music. For some
it might be advantageous to put a clarinet in their hand, teach them
piano, but as a rule I would just wait. In the end, I think a year or
two makes a lot of difference in maturity, but not in playing ability.

Ability is asymptotic in that the normal player comes to a certain point
and progression slows down, not because the person is doing any less,
but because distinction between playing abilities is harder to judge.
If you put the principal clarinet of the Toronto Symphony against the
principal of the Tokyo Symphony how much of a difference would there
be? Some, obiviously, but not that much.

So, what is really the difference if the person is to an advanced point
at age 15 or age 17? Not that much in the grand scheme of things. I
guess being a kid still myself, I have a different view, but I fail to
see why kids have to start so early. Given enough time and practice
they will hit their peak.

One hour of brilliant practice is worth ten hours of wasted time.
Practice does not make perfect; correct practice that reinforces correct
concepts makes perfect. So rather than focusing on getting kids started
on instruments, I would rather let them run around on the playground,
and enjoy their youth than say: "You have to practice thirty minutes
every day." It should be something the kid wants to do, and not due
entirely to parental concerns. Parental encouragement and suggestion is
of course good, but if the kids heart isn't in it all the pushing in the
world won't help.

I remember back to when I was 5 and my parents forced me to take piano.
Three months later I just didn't want to go back. I hated my lessons,
hated playing, and never wanted to see another sheet of music again.
Years later, the middle of sixth grade, I came home and suggested to my
parents that I join band. Ever since I have been successful with music,
mainly due to my own motivation and not to an early start.

My point, and I do have one, is that you should talk to your kid and see
what he wants to do. Encourage, but don't force. And let him enjoy his
childhood, because he will grow up soon enough!

Just my opinion, so take it with the usual grain of salt.

----------------
Craig Countryman
cegc@-----.net
http://www.geocities.com/Vienna/1711

Quote of the Day:

"That's what show business is -- sincere insincerity."
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