Klarinet Archive - Posting 000229.txt from 1997/08

From: deerich@-----.net
Subj: Re: How young is too young?
Date: Wed, 6 Aug 1997 21:47:40 -0400

There have been many good an thought provoking replies to your
question. My suggestion is to let him try if he is physically able to
handle the clarinet. Kids like to imitate their older brothers and
sisters. BUT make it fun. Don't make it a HAVE to type of thing. If
he wants to play 1/2 hour today but only a couple of minutes tomorrow,
go with the flow. Enjoyment will keep him motivated.

As for lessons, I don't know. At this point a teacher might make it too
regimented. However if you could find a teacher who is willing to go
along with the above approach it would be beneficial so that he does not
pick up bad habits.

Last but not least, if he wants to play along with you, do that even if
it is only Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.

This is basically the approach I am using with my daughter. She's 10 but
doesn't want to really work at anything. So we do work on drills but
then make sure there is something fun. If she comes to me and says "Mom
let's play", we do.

Good luck
Dee Hays
deerich@-----.net