What's a good age I should start my child on an instrument?

Question

This is a great question!

I have been teaching over 13 years with a degree in jazz music performance from the largest music educator school in the world, also known for it's prestigious grammy-nominated jazz performance program.

I'd love to answer this question for you.

Justine D. · Accepted Answer

I feel starting with piano is a great basis. I recommend age 9 as any younger might be too difficult but it has been done. Just my personal preference. This is such a great question. Thank you for asking

Noah N. · Answer

I would say any age above 5 is probably appropriate! It really depends on the kid though. I think it would worthwhile to have a child taught an instrument young but with short lessons.

Ben P. · Answer

It really depends on the student!  I'd say the youngest I would start a student on drums is age 6 or 7.  For students at a young age I find that shorter lesson length is better.  The key at this age is making the instrument FUN.  If it's fun for them they will practice, progress and continue on the instrument.

Anthony R. · Answer

When it comes to music there is no set age. It depends on the person qualified to teach on whether they want to teach a certain age. I have taught from ages 3-4 years old all the way to 53 years old. So if you see something in the child and you want them to get that structure and also ignite that flame get them in Now!!

Eric Z. · Answer

Hi! I have a few different thoughts on this - one more abstract and one a bit more concrete. I'll start with the former.

Personally, I'm not sure there's a set age that comes to mind for me. Maybe see what your child naturally likes to do? I've heard of plenty of drummers/percussionists who banged on pots/hit things with hands/etc when they were really little - look for signs like this, because when you start them doing something they already have an inkling to do, there is more incentive for them to do it and get better. (Now, of course, don't expect this to happen, but I'd say just to always pay attention. They're little kids after all!). All in all, if they show a special interest in anything - nurture it! Regardless of age.

Sorry if that is a different take on your question! However I think it is a viewpoint that can easily be missed. If I were to be a bit more concrete, perhaps 7 to 9 years of age, especially if they're not really showing any interest in anything in particular. Again, if they ARE showing interest, really nurture that.