I’m thinking about placing my child in music school
11:45 am January 29th, 2009There’s a few things to consider before making this leap. Having worked in a music school, I know a lot of the things that they do that aren’t really that great. And yes- there are pros and cons to everything, but some of these you might want to consider.
Some schools say they are better than others, when in fact they are exactly the same, just charge more. Make sure you do your research- don’t let the little ones pull or sway you to the first music school you see.
Has a friend mentioned a music school to you? If yes, go ask for a one month trial. Notice I said trial- kids tend to get bored when the novelty wears off OR they don’t practice at home, making once a week lessons not worth the effort or the drive which may include lugging their instrument along. And a lot of music schools have a minimum period that they need in order for you to cancel lessons completely. So by asking for a one month Trial it gives you time to consider.
I just talked about their instrument, but I forgot to mention, will you rent or buy? My suggestion, rent for the one month trial and if things go well, buy an instrument to practice on at home. Many music schools have a discounted rental system set up with local music stores, however, if you do your shopping you might find something even cheaper- because if you really really think about it- the music schools are making money by offering this service somehow.
What is the right instrument for my kids? Well with today’s craze with Hannah Montana, and The Jonas Brothers your child might tell you they want to play guitar. Guitar is a fun instrument, but for a 4 1/2 year old it might be tough. I would suggest starting them off on piano, just so they get used to the fact that there is homework involved. But then again- if they aren’t interested in piano they probably won’t be interested at all in practicing at home- making this venture another waste of money. If you aren’t sure what your child should play, then piano is a great starter. If they tell you they want to play guitar, wait until they are at least 5 or 6 before placing them in lessons.
Be wary when strapping yourself into a contract. Because that is exactly what it is - A contract. Read it over before signing. Some schools are cunning enough to put it on the back of the page where you place all your information, so check first, because you don’t want just anyone having all that information about you and your kids. There may be some conditions like:
- No cancellations for bad weather
- One full calendar month is necessary when canceling permanently
- You only have an X amount of classes that can be missed in a school year.
Ok- that’s all I have for now. If you guys have any questions, please feel free to comment and ask. I searched the web all over to find information on music lessons and schools and I couldn’t find anything other than a sales pitch. I won’t disclose the school I worked for as it is a privacy issue on my part- not because I am doing any favours to them, because trust me, I would not.
