Learning a musical instrument is one of the most valuable undertakings that an individual can pursue. Playing music enhances one’s creativity and critical thinking. Studies have shown that children who take lessons score higher on math and science exams than children who have no interest in music. Despite the acknowledged benefits of playing music, many people are intimidated by the prospect of learning a new instrument. They are worried that they possess no natural talent or know too little about music to ever reach any level of competency. One does not have to know anything about music to take lessons. The process of learning how to play is simple and, most importantly, rewarding.
1) Take Lessons.
Finding a music teacher is easy. Many teachers advertise on sites like Craigslist or in local newspapers. One could call a nearby university with a music program and ask if any students would be interested in teaching lessons. If the new musician is currently in college, he or she could sign up for beginners’ music classes through the music department. Many music stores hold their own music lessons, and most major cities have standalone music schools. Some services like TakeLessons are nationwide resources that link students with teachers all across the country.
2) Learn to read music.
Many people who want to play music balk at the prospect of using sheet music. They feel that learning to read music is a waste of time or that it is uncool. Reading music opens up new levels of understanding that are not always available to musicians who only play by ear. Seeing the mathematical relationships between notes and chords on paper makes it easier to improvise as an advanced student.
3) Practice.
It is not enough to just take lessons once a week. A music student must practice for at least 30 minutes every day. Most serious musicians practice for four or five hours a day.
4) Perform.
The payoff of musicianship comes by performing for an audience. Being an engaging performer is a talent that is independent of technical musicianship. Most music schools organize year-end concerts so their students can show their friends and families how much they have learned.
5) Compose.
Once a musician has mastered other people’s compositions, it is time to create his own. This is why learning how to read sheet music is so important. He will need to be able to write down what he wants to play, and sometimes seeing the notes on paper can help him figure out where the composition should go.
Learning a new instrument is just the first step toward becoming a performer and writing original music. Anyone who wants to take lessons should not hesitate to explore the world of music.
