Learning an instrument is one of the most rewarding activities you can offer yourself or your child. Once you can play, you’ll experience the joy of expressing yourself in a whole new way. And you or your child will also gain a unique sense of accomplishment from mastering a challenging endeavor.

It’s not clear if “music makes you smart” or simply if smart people often pursue music. What IS clear is that when you play or sing, your brain is on fire – rapidly decoding complex instructions and sending them to your fingers, larynx or lips. It’s tremendous mental exercise – an enjoyable way to keep your mind constantly sharp.

How hard is it to learn music? Like anything worthwhile, it takes some effort. But lessons go gradually, and at your own pace. If you’re putting in the work – around 30 minutes of practice each day – you’ll probably surprise yourself with how quickly you progress.

When should you start lessons? Any point after about age eight or nine is a good time. If a younger child shows huge interest and aptitude, then you might consider lessons at an earlier age. But most children need a little more maturity and attention span – and for piano and wind instruments, their hands have to be big enough!

Should you force your child to take lessons? Absolutely not. Children have many talents, and music may not be among them. If your child is attracted to sports or art or robots, then nurture that interest. There are lots of ways to foster achievement and self-esteem, and music is only one of them.

What about adults – how old is too old? There really isn’t an upper age after which you can’t start lessons. Many people start learning music in their thirties and forties, or in retirement. As long as you’re willing to put in the practice time, you’re never too old to learn music.

Have more questions? Call Scott Dailey at 650-714-9578 or email at scott.w.dailey@gmail.com.