Your Child Wants to Play an Instrument. Now What?

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If you watch the news or read up on current events, you know there are several studies out there that discuss the benefits of music education. Learning to play an instrument or how to read music at an early age can help boost intelligence, confidence, and maturity levels in children and adolescents. True, not all children are interested in music, but what do you do when your little one mentions they’d like to learn to play the flute, drums, or piano? Don’t stress out. The folks at wikiHow have put together a list of steps for you to follow should your child want to become a music maker.

1. Set an example and motivate your child – If you have musical talent, play in front of your child and answer their questions. Talk about your days in the school band or let your child experiment with your instrument.
2. Expose your child to music – Play quiet music for your children while they are very young or let them fall asleep to the sounds of classical music. As they get older, listen to music together or take them to a concert. Teach them to “feel” the music and to take note of the many things going on at once.
3. Talk to them about music lessons – Don’t force your child to learn an instrument or take lessons. If you had any success in the first two steps, they probably are eager to start. Ask if there is a particular instrument they would like to learn to play. If not, move to Step 4.
4. Look into options – If your child is in elementary school, see if they offer a music program in an older grade. If they are in middle school, look into band or orchestra programs. If there is nothing available at the school, research music instructors in your area.
5. Help your child choose an instrument – Taking into consideration your child’s commitment to music, size, and maturity level, take them to a music store or set up a meeting with a band director to try a starter instrument such as a clarinet, piano, or guitar.
6. Buy, borrow, or rent an instrument once a decision has been made – Look into rent-to-own programs which may be the best bet until you know your child is completely committed to one instrument. If you must buy early on, buy cheap.
7. Encourage your child to practice – Again, it’s not a good idea to force the child to practice but try to encourage and motivate them to practice at least  half an hour every day and congratulate them when they do something exceptionally well.

Find instrument rentals in your area with RIT

Has your little one decided to take up the guitar, trumpet, drums or another instrument but you’d rather they try it before you buy it? Or are you in a band and need some equipment to take on the road? Thompson Music Rental can help!

Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Thompson Music rental offers professional quality musical instruments, backline and studio gear, small sound systems, and DJ equipment for rent. From guitars and amplifiers to drums and keyboards, Thompson Music Rental has the instruments and equipment you need to put on one heck of a show whether you are playing in the garage or on the big stage.

Since the company’s launch, Thompson Music Rental has worked with clients ranging from the biggest stars on the planet to other individuals who take their music just as seriously. For those acts in need, Thompson Music Rental also offers delivery services as well as backline tech assistance.

Ready to rock out? Visit Thompson Music Rental online or check out their company page on Rent It Today, the most comprehensive web rental resource.