Give your child a musical head start this September.
With the summer holidays in full swing, September might feel a long way off. But for parents thinking about music lessons, courses or ensembles for their children, now is the perfect time to start planning.
Whether your child is keen to pick up an instrument for the first time, wants to continue playing when they return to school, or is looking for a new musical challenge, then West Sussex Music can help families find opportunities to suit them.
James Underwood, Chief Executive for West Sussex Music, said:
“September is a brilliant time for children to start or restart their musical journey. There are so many ways for children to get involved in music, and it doesn’t have to mean committing to individual instrumental lessons. They might enjoy learning as part of a group, joining an ensemble, trying a new course or simply exploring an instrument they’ve never played before.”
Does your child already have music lessons? Keep the momentum going
If your child already plays an instrument, the summer is a good opportunity to think about what they would like to achieve during the next school year.
Would they like to work towards a particular goal? Would they like to play in friendly group? Maybe take part in a course or ensemble? Or perhaps they are ready to try a completely different instrument?
And if they are moving to secondary school, it’s worth thinking ahead about how their music-making can continue alongside their new timetable and activities.
Thinking about lessons for the first time?
Learning an instrument can give children much more than the ability to play music. It can help develop confidence, creativity, concentration and teamwork, while giving them something they can enjoy and develop at their own pace.
There is no “right” age or instrument to start with. Some children are drawn to the piano or guitar, while others might discover a love of strings, brass, woodwind or percussion.
West Sussex Music offers a range of musical opportunities for children and young people across the county, including instrumental and vocal tuition, courses and ensemble opportunities.
You don’t need a West Sussex Music teacher to hire an instrument
One thing parents may not realise is that families can hire instruments through West Sussex Music even if their child’s music teacher is not employed by West Sussex Music.
This can be a useful option for children who are starting a new instrument or who need a suitable instrument for the next stage of their musical journey, without the upfront cost of buying one.
It’s not just about lessons
For children who aren’t sure about individual tuition, or who simply love making music with other people, courses and ensembles can be a fantastic way to get involved.
Playing alongside other young musicians can be hugely motivating and can help children develop skills such as listening, collaboration and confidence – as well as being great fun.
Find out more about music lessons, courses, ensembles and instrument hire with West Sussex Music here.
