More about music classes after school
Music lessons are quintessential creative outlets for young musicians. Classes teach different instruments, with piano and guitar being the most popular. You can also find training in string, brass, percussion, and woodwind instruments, all led by seasoned teachers. After-school musical instrument training programs include both private and group training. The former will provide specialised training in your choice of instrument while children learn to harmonize with other band members in the latter. Classes are also offered in a virtual format.
What kids learn in lessons and classes
Children learn hands-on how to play songs in the genres of jazz, rock, blues, or classical music, depending on the instrument. For example, piano lessons focus on classical training, while guitar lessons experiment with rock, jazz, and blues sounds, as well as classical guitar.
Some musical activities are taught in programs that have a broader curriculum. Singing lessons for kids, for example, may be the focus of the program but there will be incidental learning of guitar and piano. Even some STEAM programs, for example, will touch on the mathematics of musical notation, with practical implications for music.
Children as young as 4 years old are welcome in music lessons. Music theory, such as rhythm, tempo, pitch, harmony, and melody, is a main focus for younger musicians, while older children receive more hands-on training. Lessons are offered from $29/lesson and up. Private lessons are often more inexpensive, while summer or after-school band programs range from $300 to $360, due to a more condensed curriculum. Group lessons include both boys and girls. Children can collaborate and perform with a diverse group of fellow musicians.
As you browse the list of programs above, you’ll notice a mix between private and group instruction. While group lessons are less individualized, smaller class sizes allow instructors to still work closely with students. Group performance teaches children how to collaborate with others, and of course, there’s also a social benefit. Children learn how instruments blend together to create melodies. Other skills include keeping time, harmonizing, and improvisation. Group lessons often require previous instrument experience before enrollment.
Private and group lessons both include hands-on learning and close instruction. For example, guitarists learn how to finger frets to produce chords and also to pick. Teachers work closely with students to steadily improve all aspects of playing.
Consult with the individual programs listed above to learn what they teach.
Benefits kids gain from music lessons
Music lessons are a great way for young performers to see and realize this part of their artistic potential. Other benefits of these programs include:
- Children’s confidence grows as they become comfortable with their talents and learn to perform in front of others, eventually leading to playing in front of larger audiences
- It improves kids’ mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Listening and playing music manages the body’s blood pressure, improving cardiovascular health. Music also increases the production of “happy hormones” in the body, including serotonin and endorphins. These benefits essentially reduce children’s anxiety and stress levels.
- Transferable music skills are taught with each instrument. These include rhythm, memorization, sight reading, improvisation, and performance. Children can experiment with other instruments and decide which they’re most passionate about.
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