What a great question! Usually, we’re asked how old is too old to start learning to play an instrument. The answer to that question is pretty much never. We humans continue to learn and grow throughout our lives, so learning to play might take a little longer for adults but it’s never too late to start learning something new.
For young children, the idea is to first create opportunities to experience music. CMA offers a specially designed class called “First Steps in Music for Infants and Toddlers,” where children and their parents or caregivers participate together. The idea and guiding philosophy here is that very young children provided with healthy musical experiences benefit in many ways. Music supports the development of young brains, helps children learn in many different ways, and fosters connection and emotional growth.
When considering an instrument, we need to take a number of things into consideration. It’s necessary to develop and build skills in order to successfully play any instrument. Fine motor skills develop over time – think holding crayons or pencils, beginning to draw, learning to use scissors. All children are different, and these things generally begin around the age of four or five. It is possible for children that age to learn the basics of playing an instrument. Attention span is another important consideration – how long can the child focus in a formal lesson?
At CMA, we offer fifteen minute lessons for the youngest students. This is an excellent way to introduce and develop the skills needed to be successful on the learning path. Several teachers offer the Suzuki approach, which is based in the philosophy that every child can learn in a nurturing environment (https://internationalsuzuki.org/method.htm)
Finding the Right Instrument for Your Child’s First Music Lessons
Which instruments are best for the youngest students? Most often, piano and violin are good choices, along with guitar or ukulele. Students on woodwind and brass instruments start later because of the nature of those instruments and the physical skills needed to play successfully. Most public school programs start instrumental music in fifth grade, but students can learn quite successfully in third and fourth grade.
The Student Services Office is happy to explore questions and possibilities if you have a young child interested in lessons (or you’re interested for them). There’s so much variability and so many things to take into consideration that each student is different and may need a particular direction – or the freedom to explore. While it may never be too late to start lessons, in many cases it may be a little too soon. We’re more than happy to guide that process so that your student starts their musical journey with success.
Kathy Kucsan, Ph.D.
Education Director and Co-Founder