It feels wonderful to have new students wishing to begin piano lessons again. It’s a sign of a brighter tomorrow. A question that parents often ask at one of the first lessons is, “How long should they practice?” I once heard a teacher say that getting an instrument is like getting a pet. Both sets of my grandsons recently adopted a dog, and I get the comparison. Just as when you bring the pet home, you take on the responsibility to nourish it, play with it and help it learn to do what you want it to.  You spend time with it every day. And the relationship changes you, as well. 

Isn’t this indeed like our relationship with our instrument of choice? By exploring, practicing and playing it, we grow our appreciation and love for it. We enjoy spending time with it and we share it with others. 

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if this attitude toward music lessons could grow in every music student and continue the rest of their lives? My response to the parents who ask is to tell them my pet analogy. I encourage them to create a playful attitude for their child. If the student can leave a practice session looking forward to the next one, there is no battle over practicing. How exciting if that desire to play comes three times a day. I suggest it’s good to be creative in practicing. We’ve seen the joy of children exploring the piano. Each creative experience is an opportunity to learn something new about their instrument. I’ve had students reach their foot over slyly to put it on the pedal. Instead of stopping them I like to act surprised and ask, “What is that sound? Where did it come from?” Or sometimes I say nothing and allow them to continue, as if I can’t hear it. Their facial expression is worth it. A parent who can cheer, laugh and encourage is the salve that makes the journey smooth and prosperous. 

And the instrument doesn’t make any messes to clean up!