Parent: 'Have you practised today?'
Kid: 'Um......not yet!'
Parent: 'And when are you going to do it?'
Kid: 'Maybe a bit later?'
We all know these words. Usually there is a period when children need to be guided to do anything else apart of playing. And this is normal, as their main activity is to play. A useful way of encouraging regular practice is by "negotiating" it in a friendly way.
In the early stages, it is the feeling behind an activity that makes the difference, not so much the activity itself. Therefore, if a child experiences a good feeling during the lesson, chances are he will enjoy it. This does not mean he will always practice, but he will have a positive feeling about the lesson.
Adults stay motivated much easier, since their motivation comes from within and from their own life experience.
In my opinion, studying and playing music is similar to practising a sport, and it is the routine that develops self-discipline over time. And as we know, self-discipline is necessary in lots of other areas in life. Therefore, it is a transferable skill.
There are a lot of benefits that come together with learning a music instrument, and they transform you over time. I am happy to share them from my teaching approach with you, knowing that this list is valid only if the person is engaged in the learning process, wants it, and takes active and constant steps towards it.
Short term benefits:
Self-discovery through gradual and practical learning
Fun and engaging learning through games and stories
Self-discipline
Time-management
Memory development through training
Hearing memory trained through listening
Team-work
Imagination development
Long term benefits:
Progress through practical learning
Constant discovery of new things
The ability to play your favourite tunes
A portfolio of pieces that have been learnt, played and understood
Self-discipline
Time-management
Memory development
Team-work
The ability to play in public
Self-confidence
Increased focus
Brain activity stimulation, especially for children
Imagination development
Hearing training through singing and playing
Hearing memory trained through listening
Healing and well-being effects
Preparations for exams, for those who are interested
Speaking of exams, I see them as an opportunity to apply what you know, not as a goal itself. The goal is to make music and enjoy the learning process. You decide how far you take it and your engagement dictates the quality and speed of your progress.
Question: What are your experiences with learning anything on a long term? How do you stay motivated?
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments' section.
Below, some Mozart music that is known for having beneficial effects for the brain and well being:
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