Stress that quality, not quantity, of practice is what results in real progress. “Music comes to the child more naturally when there is music in his mother’s speaking voice,” said the violin educator, Suzuki. So be pleasant and encouraging about your child’s practicing. Naturally there will be occasions when you will need to be firm. But remember, with “music in your voice,” coach him, guide him, and don’t police him. When you help your child, be at his side – not at the other end of the room or in the next room. Teach him to treat the practice session with the same respect he gives to his lesson period. During a “crisis,” always “talk it out” with your child in an atmosphere of mutual respect. If the issue is serious, you may need to discuss it with the teacher first. Allow your child to participate in the final decision so he feels that his voice has been heard. Teach him to interact constructively in group decision making. A sense of humor is a powerful tool with which to resolve disagreements about practicing. Always let your child feel you are proud of his achievements, even when they are small.

Never belittle your child’s efforts. Don’t despair at temporary lapses in practice. Your child will make progress in the lesson itself, albeit less rapidly. Don’t threaten to stop his lessons if he doesn’t practice. Threats can work during periods of high motivation in music, but may boomerang during a “growing pain” period. The day may come when he will remind you of your threat and insist that you make good on it. Don’t criticize your child in the presence of others, especially the teacher. The teacher has skillfully built up a good relationship with your child, and his “loss of face” will tend to undermine it. Speak to the teacher privately about problems, and to others not at all. Your financial investment in your child’s music lessons pays its dividends through the skills he acquires over the years, not by the amount of his daily practice, or how much he plays for you or your guests. Remember you are giving your child a music education for his artistic use, for his self expression, and his pleasure. Don’t expect him as a child to be grateful for your sacrifices. His gratitude will come years later when he can play and enjoy music as an adult. Music Makes the World Go Round

Steinway Piano Man