Parenting Pointers: Taking Music Lessons Together

Not all parents have to stand on the sidelines while their children learn to play music. Sharing a hobby like playing a musical instrument is a wonderful way for parents to grow closer to their children. My husband and I are both musicians, and it's so fun that our children are showing an early interest in music. We love having that shared interest as a family.

Alan Cole, Chief Operating Officer of TakeLessons, believes that taking lessons with your kids will give you a better idea of all that goes into learning, and provide you with one more way to show your child how much you care. I had a chance to interview him to learn about the advantages of taking lessons together.

1)What are some of the benefits of having a shared hobby between parent and child?

Having a shared hobby, like taking music lessons, is a great way to fit in quality family time and also bond with each other - both in and outside of lessons.  When I play the piano with my daughter it's an opportunity to carve out time just for the two of us - so practicing doesn't seem like a chore,  it's a fun, special experience.

2) What are some advantages of a parent taking lessons with their child?

Parents who take lessons with their child will have a better understanding of what their children are going through, especially when it comes to learning curves and common lesson roadblocks. My daughter and I help each other stay motivated and hold each other accountable for practicing. Working on a new song together also allows us to strengthen our bond and creates a real sense of accomplishment that we can share.  

3) What if a parent already has previous music knowledge - is it still appropriate for them to take lessons together?

Absolutely - even if you're at different playing levels, setting aside time dedicated to learning and playing music can be a great stress reliever and way to spend some quality time together. Or if a parent's schedule doesn't permit them to participate in the lesson itself, they can still share the experience by dedicating practice time together.  

4) How does a lesson with parent and child typically work?

All of the music teachers on TakeLessons.com customize their lesson plans based the student's needs, so typically the lessons start with determining the goals and talking about the learning objectives. Depending on the goals, a teacher might teach concepts individually, or have parents and children learn songs together.  

5) Do you have other tips for parents who are sharing a love of music with their children?

A strong support system can make a huge difference when you're learning a new skill. If you see your child struggling, share your own frustrations, and the steps you're taking to improve. You can also incorporate music into your daily life, as you're making dinner or running errands. And don't forget about practicing and playing together whenever you can - duets or even low-key "jam" sessions can be a fun family activity!