If you’ve ever thought about taking music lessons as an adult, you might have had some of these thoughts: “My parents made me take piano lessons when I was a kid, and I hated it and never practiced. Now I really regret that.” “I’d love to have a grand piano in my house, but I don’t know how to play.” “I always wanted to play an instrument when I was a child but never got the chance.” “I played the clarinet in high school and loved it.” These reflections are common, especially among those considering music lessons later in life.
Music lessons for adults are widely available for nearly any instrument, including voice. However, there’s often less promotion for adult music lessons compared to those for children, leading to the misconception that music instruction is primarily for kids. This article explores the main reasons adults take music lessons, the benefits they gain, and how to avoid potential pitfalls when starting lessons.
The first question to ask yourself is, “Why do I want to do this?” Both you and your teacher need a clear understanding of your goals. Equally important is your choice of instrument. Perhaps you have an old saxophone tucked away, a piano inherited from your grandmother, or a desire to learn the violin. No matter your choice, an exciting journey awaits. Each instrument is unique, but the principles of written music apply to all, enabling good performance, which is the goal of any performing art.
The piano is often considered the “motherboard” of all musical instruments. Many other instruments extend from the piano, and learning to play or sing is enjoyable regardless of your instrument. To produce a good sound and perform accurately, even if just for yourself, understanding the fundamental principles of playing and singing is essential. It’s stimulating to entertain yourself or perform on stage in front of an audience.
Once you decide to begin lessons, the next step is finding a teacher who aligns with your interests and schedule. Communicate your needs clearly to your instructor. Whether you want to play pop and jazz for fun or form a classical woodwind quintet, your teacher should know your preferences. Flexibility in exploring various music styles can make lessons enjoyable. Regardless of your musical style, mastering the basics is crucial. Communication between teacher and student is key, and a good instructor will make learning fun and engaging.
After finding the right teacher, determine how much time you can devote to this exciting project. Remember, music is a journey, not a destination. Even the most accomplished professionals continue to seek coaching and feedback. Enter your lessons with the expectation of spending a few years mastering the basics. Regular practice is essential for success. While lessons may only be 30 minutes per week, practicing daily for even a short period is vital.
There are well-documented therapeutic benefits of playing an instrument. Nursing homes often have pianos, as playing music can be safe and enjoyable at any age. For seniors, playing music can be a great way to pass the time and make remarkable progress. For working adults, it can provide stress relief. A good teacher will ensure that the music you learn is enjoyable and not another burden on your schedule.
Playing music engages both the body and mind. Each finger and note requires precise coordination. Successfully navigating a challenging passage can produce a true sense of euphoria.
Music lessons for adults also offer social benefits. Joining a community orchestra or chorus, entertaining at parties, or participating in a church choir can be more enjoyable with proper training. Bulletin boards in music stores and online listings often feature people looking for musicians. Music is a performing art, but playing alone can also be relaxing. A good music studio will offer recitals for those who wish to perform publicly.
Music transcends cultural, ethnic, political, and religious boundaries and remains a constant in a changing world. For those who took lessons as children and return to music later in life, the fundamentals remain the same.
