Preface
Music and performing arts have been a part of human civilisation for thousands of years and it is an activity enjoyed by people of all ages. Being considered an integral part of individuals’ lives, the continuous search of opportunities to learn such art forms, to perfect it has always been human’s pursuit in life. Learning said performing arts contribute greatly in our personal and social life in terms of instilling discipline, values of culture/history, personal skill of being able to play an instrument, a means for recreation and fulfilling personal satisfaction of being able to partake in creating art.
Learning Music/ Performing art offline or via Online music lessons can be an enriching experience for children, as it can help them develop various skills and abilities such as – creativity, coordination, concentration and personal discipline. However parents often wonder what age would be the appropriate one for their child to start learning music or any art form. In this blog we will explore this question and examine the benefits and drawbacks of starting music lessons at different ages.
It is important to note that the right age for child to start learning Music/ Art form depends on various factors such as personality, interests and learning style. Some children may be naturally inclined towards music/art form and may show affinity towards learning specific art form, while others may require a more structured mode of lessons and learning to develop the necessary interest over time.
Benefits of starting Art Education Early
There have been numerous studies and research done on the topic of Learning Music/Art form and the effects it has on the brain, especially kids. Most of them suggest that children who start learning any art form early at a young age tend to benefit greatly from the process by developing greater concentration, focus , better memory and language skills.
It has also been found that music education helps the child develop their creativity, critical thinking and problem solving abilities. Additionally when the child starts learning an instrument at an early age, they tend to improve their fine motor skills and hand eye coordination.
A 2016 study at University of Souther California’s Brain and Creativity Institute found that Music experiences in childhood can actually accelerate Brain development, particularly in the areas of language acquisition and reading skills.
Some of the key advantages of learning music at a early age are
- Research shows that children who study music/ Art form tend to perform better in academics and develop avid sense of reading, and creativity.
- Learning music can stimulate creativity and imagination, allowing the child to express themselves in new ways.
- Online music lessons and Music education in general allows the child to meet new people, learn from a variety of people thereby allowing the child to interact with peers,
- teachers etc with a common topic to converse, in turn improving their social skills and nurture them towards building relationships.
- Successfully learning music or any art form and performing before others can boost the child’s confidence and self esteem.
- Music and art form can help the child regulate their emotions, leading to emotional intelligence and coping skills.
- Music, art forms can expose children to different cultures and styles, increasing their appreciation for diversity and promoting cultural awareness.
Overall, online music classes/learning can provide children with a range of benefits that can enhance their overall development and well-being.
The ground zero for introducing music:
After many extensive researches and studies, it is commonly agreed that the best age for starting off a child’s journey in music by slow exposure and gradual learning experience is around the age of age 4-5.
This is the time where the child would grow a consciousness and affinity towards music, where they are able to identify pleasant tone/sound and want to shift their focus and attention towards it. At this age the child’s fine motor skills and hand eye coordination also begin to set in and develop , therefore making it easier for them to fiddle their way around an instrument, getting a feel of it and developing an interest.
By the age of five, most children have built a foundation that has prepared them for formalised music lessons. Their curious and inquisitive minds will propel them to ask more questions about the instrument, about what to do correct , what not to do etc.
Quoting Plato’s words- “ Music is a more potent instrument than any other for Education”. Implying music education is a very essential in daily life, as important as academic education.
Courses for Children under Age 5 to begin learning
1. Piano/Keyboard
Why It’s Great: The piano is one of the best instruments for kids to start with because it lays a strong foundation in music theory. It helps them understand notes, rhythm, and melody. The keyboard version is a more portable and accessible option.
Age Range: Suitable for kids aged 5 and up.
Benefits: Enhances hand-eye coordination, improves concentration, and helps develop both hands’ dexterity.
2. Ukulele
Why It’s Great: The ukulele is smaller and easier to handle than a guitar, making it an ideal string instrument for young kids. It has fewer strings (four) and is easy to learn, which boosts a child’s confidence as they can play simple songs quickly.
Age Range: Suitable for kids aged 5 and up.
Benefits: Encourages fine motor skills, develops rhythm, and builds confidence as kids progress quickly.
3. Recorder
Why It’s Great: The recorder is a simple wind instrument that’s often introduced in school music programs. It’s inexpensive, easy to play, and great for teaching kids the basics of reading music.
Age Range: Suitable for kids aged 5 and up.
Benefits: Teaches breath control, note reading, and improves listening skills.
4. Violin
Why It’s Great: The violin is a popular choice for children because of its size range and adaptability to different ages. Starting with the violin can teach kids discipline, finger coordination, and ear training.
Age Range: Suitable for kids aged 5 and up.
Benefits: Enhances fine motor skills, develops pitch accuracy, and improves focus and discipline.
5. Drums/Percussion Instruments
Why It’s Great: Drums are perfect for kids with a lot of energy. They can start with simple hand drums or percussion instruments like tambourines or maracas, eventually advancing to a full drum set.
Age Range: Suitable for kids aged 4 and up.
Benefits: Develops a strong sense of rhythm, coordination, and allows for physical expression.
6. Guitar (Acoustic or Classical)
Why It’s Great: The guitar is a versatile and widely popular instrument. For younger children, a classical guitar with nylon strings is recommended because it is easier on the fingers.
Age Range: Suitable for kids aged 6 and up.
Benefits: Strengthens hand coordination, fosters creativity, and provides a lifelong skill.
7. Drum Pads/Xylophone
Why It’s Great: Percussion instruments like drum pads or a xylophone offer a fun and engaging way for younger kids to get involved in music. These instruments are easy to pick up and encourage early rhythm development.
Age Range: Suitable for kids aged 3 and up.
Benefits: Improves motor skills, timing, and introduces basic musical patterns.
8. Harmonica
Why it’s Great: The harmonica is a small, portable wind instrument that’s easy for kids to carry around and play anywhere. It’s also relatively easy to learn, making it a fun option for kids.
Age Range: Suitable for kids aged 6 and up.
Benefits: Improves breath control, teaches melody and harmony, and is portable.
9. Vocal lessons
Why it’s Great: Learning vocal singing requires just your voice and carries no requirement of lugging around instruments, and in early ages children are very vocal with their voices. Singing acts as a great medium of release and expression.
Age Range: Suitable for kids from age of 4 and up.
Benefits: Improves breath control and strengths vocal chords.
Choosing the Right Instrument
- Interest and Enthusiasm: Encourage your child to choose an instrument they’re interested in. This will keep them motivated to practice and enjoy the learning process.
- Physical Readiness: Some instruments, like the guitar or violin, require fine motor skills and hand strength, so choose an instrument that suits your child’s physical development.
- Access to Lessons: Consider the availability of teachers and lessons for the instrument. Some instruments, like the piano and guitar, have more resources for beginners.
At Bmusician, we foster musical exploration and ensure that children have access to a variety of instruments through our music Courses, helping them discover their musical passions while building important life skills.
Conclusion
Online music classes for kids under age 5 can be a wonderful way to introduce young learners to the world of music in a fun, engaging, and interactive manner. These programs help develop early musical skills, enhance cognitive abilities, and improve motor coordination, all while keeping children entertained. With the right course—featuring age-appropriate content, interactive activities, and parental involvement—kids can build a strong foundation for future musical learning. However, it is essential to choose platforms that prioritize playful learning over rigid instruction, ensuring that music remains a joyful and creative experience for young minds.
