“You are Never Too Old to Set Another Goal, Or to Dream A New Dream.”
Playing a musical instrument or taking music lessons has traditionally been something you do as a child. Music lessons are seen as something only accomplished when you are young, and the information embedded only during your formative years. Otherwise, you will be hopelessly behind or will have just missed out.
But this is not true.
Adults have been taking music lessons for a long time, and recently more adults are making music a priority in their lives. ‘Bucket list” is a trendy term, but that is what they are saying - “Playing an instrument has been on my bucket list, and it’s time to take lessons!”
Why Adults are signing up for Music Lessons
Perhaps you gave up music lessons as a child because you found them tedious, difficult, or did not like your music teacher. Adult music lessons are quite different. Adults are typically more able to express questions effectively, therefore learning more efficiently.
Being motivated to learn, you are also likely to enjoy both the lessons and the practice time, and schedule around your work your other obligations to ensure maximum pleasure. Additionally, you will be more likely to understand the instructions you are being given, making lessons seem more effortless.
Why Start Lessons Now?
Increasingly, adults are embracing musicianship later in life. Picking up an instrument that they longed to play as a child, they say that there are MANY reasons for doing this. Some are excited about the studies that show the health benefits of playing music. Others describe it as scratching an itch they’ve had all their lives. While some are simply happy to play “Happy Birthday” for their grandchildren, others want to achieve a level of competence that allows them to join ensembles and even earn money teaching or playing.
Success Stories
Sabrina, having raised her children, and a self-proclaimed empty nester had always wanted to sing. Four years ago, she signed up for singing lessons. At one of our recent Adult Recitals, she stood up and fearlessly sang her beautiful heart out.
Eric always wanted to play the piano, and over a year ago started lessons at the age of 52. He dazzled everyone with the four songs he played at a recent recital and had a massive grin on his face after playing. He takes weekly lessons and enjoys learning all about the piano.
We have an adult orchestra now, with many adults participating. Among them is Marcela on Cello, Kana plays the Violin, Jeff on Cello and Barbara on Violin. George, who leads the orchestra, is beyond thrilled that these young adults have recommitted to something they deeply love.
If you have taken lessons as a youngster…. and are eager to start again, “Fall” back into music, and embrace music lessons once again. You will be happy that you did.