So, you’ve finally decided to sign your child (or yourself) up for music lessons! Hooray! Are they (or you) starting to get nervous about that first music lesson? That’s understandable, but there’s really nothing to be nervous about. The first lesson can – and should – be exciting and fun!
Not completely convinced? That’s okay. We’ve got a list of a few things you can expect from a music lesson to help put minds to ease:
A Pleasant Greeting and Introduction
Depending on when and how you signed up for your lessons, you might not have met the teacher yet. On the other hand, your teacher has most likely been through countless “first lessons,” and they probably know just what to do to help students feel more at ease. They’ll start by introducing themselves and try to get to know your child a little better.
Specifically, they may ask about their musical tastes and background, and what brought them to their lessons. If they’re not sure what it is they want to learn exactly, that’s okay! The teacher is in control here, and they know just where to start.
While this part of your first lesson is important, introductions probably won’t take very long. After all, there’s lots of work to be done!
Get to Know Their Instrument
If this happens to not only be their first lesson with this teacher, but also their first lesson with this particular instrument, you can expect their teacher to take some time to explain to them how the instrument works. If they’re learning to play the piano, the teacher may explain how the sound is produced by hammers hitting strings. If their instrument is the violin, or another stringed instrument, they may explain the note names of the strings. If they want to learn a brass or woodwind, the teacher will probably show them the proper way to hold their instrument, and perhaps the right way to blow into it. If they’re starting out with the drums, they’ll probably learn the names of the different drums around the drum set, and maybe even hit each to see how they sound.
How to Hold & Play Their Instrument
Once they’ve got a little bit more of a feel for their instrument, it’s time to start learning how to play it! At this point, the teacher will explain the importance of good posture while playing any instrument. They’ll show students how to sit at the piano bench, the proper way to hold a violin bow, the proper finger placement for brass and woodwinds, or the importance of how to hold drumsticks.
It is critical to learn the proper way to approach every instrument from the very first lesson. That way, every time a student sits down to practice, they’re doing it in the absolute best possible way to reduce physical discomfort and stress, and improve their performance!
Actually Playing Their Instrument
A great teacher will, in fact, have them playing their instrument on the very first lesson. Of course, they shouldn’t expect to play anything too fancy or difficult. But it will be something musical, even if it only uses the three notes they’ll have learned so far. That said, if the goal is to learn how to play music, rest assured that they can and will accomplish this by the end of the first lesson!
Guidance on What to Practice
At the end of the first lesson (and probably every lesson after that), their teacher will explain what they should practice for their next lesson. The best teachers will be clear about what, exactly, they expect from their students.
The best thing your child can do for their budding musical journey is to follow these instructions. The fact is, the best way to learn any instrument quickly is to practice regularly between formal lessons. But don’t worry! They won’t be given anything too difficult. They’ll most likely only be asked to practice the lessons they learned on the first day. Later lessons will build on these fundamentals.
Be Proud of Themselves!
When that first lesson finally draws to a close, they should expect to feel proud of themselves! After all, they’ve accomplished something many people talk about, but very few actually do: learn to play music! What’s more, they may have a feeling of excitement for all their future lessons. And why now? The first lessons is just the opening steps to a long and fulfilling musical journey. They have every reason to feel excited. Enjoy every moment and try to soak up as much as you can!
Looking for Lessons?
Are you hoping to give your child the feeling of pride and excitement that goes hand in hand with a first music lesson, but you haven’t found the right teacher yet? Give The Music Studio’s professional instructors a chance!
We offer a wide range of lessons for all ages and skill levels! Our children’s classes give kids the chance to develop confidence, commitment and problem-solving skills while experiencing the joy of making music. What’s more, kids get the opportunity to take centre stage and be the star as they share their music with family and friends at The Music Studio’s monthly concerts.
Our adult classes are designed to help you progress at a pace that is comfortable for you. Your teacher at The Music Studio understands that as an adult student, finding time to practice can sometimes be difficult and will adapt your lessons accordingly. Discover your passion for music while you benefit from the mental and emotional well-being promoted through music lessons with in-person, or live and interactive online lessons at The Music Studio.
Check out everything we’ve got to offer, and start your musical journey today!