The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your First Ukulele: Options for Every Budget

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your First Ukulele: Options for Every Budget

Are you ready to embark on your ukulele journey? The ukulele’s compact size, melodious tones, and beginner-friendly nature make it a popular choice for music enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we will help you select the perfect ukulele based on your budget. From affordable options for beginners to intermediate and advanced instruments, we have got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Beginner Ukuleles (Under $75):

If you are a beginner, it is important to find an affordable yet reliable ukulele. Here are two budget-friendly options:

Kala Learn To Play Ukulele Starter Kit (Concert Size) – $59.99:

The Kala Learn To Play Ukulele Starter Kit is an excellent choice for beginners. This kit includes a concert-sized ukulele, online lessons, a tuner, a gig bag, and more. It offers outstanding value for money and ensures a smooth learning experience.

Purchase on Amazon Here

Donner Concert Ukulele – $68.99:

The Donner Concert Ukulele is another fantastic option for beginners. Crafted with a mahogany body, geared tuners, and producing warm, resonant tones, this ukulele provides exceptional playability at an affordable price.

Purchase on Amazon Here

Intermediate Ukuleles (Under $150):

Once you have developed your ukulele skills and are ready for an upgrade, consider these two intermediate options:

Cordoba 15CM Concert Ukulele – $139.00:

The Cordoba 15CM Concert Ukulele offers superb craftsmanship and a rich, vibrant sound. With a solid mahogany top, mahogany back and sides, and high-quality Aquila strings, this ukulele delivers a beautiful tone that will inspire you to play more.

Purchase on Amazon Here

Luna Tattoo Concert Mahogany Ukulele – $84.99:

Featuring a visually stunning tattoo design inspired by Hawaiian body art, the Luna Tattoo Concert Mahogany Ukulele is both visually striking and musically versatile. Its mahogany body and smooth walnut fingerboard produce warm, balanced tones.

Purchase on Amazon Here

Advanced Ukuleles (Under $300):

For experienced players seeking premium sound and craftsmanship, consider this advanced option:

Kala KA-TE Mahogany Tenor Ukulele – $199.99:

The Kala KA-TE Mahogany Tenor Ukulele is a professional-grade instrument for discerning musicians. With a solid mahogany top, mahogany back and sides, and a built-in pickup system, this ukulele offers exceptional tone and versatility. Its larger tenor size produces a rich, resonant sound suitable for various playing styles.

Purchase on Amazon Here

Finding the perfect ukulele within your budget is crucial for your musical journey. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, the options provided above offer a range of choices to suit different budgets and skill levels. Remember, the best ukulele for you is the one that resonates with your heart and inspires you to play. Happy shopping!

A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Your First Keyboard: Unleash Your Musical Potential

A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Your First Keyboard: Unleash Your Musical Potential

If you’re ready to explore the world of keyboard playing, you’ve made an exciting choice! Keyboards offer endless possibilities for musicians of all levels. In this comprehensive guide, we will help you find the perfect keyboard based on your budget. From affordable options for beginners to intermediate and advanced instruments, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Beginner Keyboards (Under $200):

For those starting their keyboard journey, finding an affordable yet feature-rich instrument is crucial. Here are two excellent options within a budget of $200 or less:

Yamaha PSR-E363 Portable Keyboard – $189.99:

The Yamaha PSR-E363 is a highly versatile portable keyboard packed with features suitable for beginners. It offers 61 touch-sensitive keys, a comprehensive library of sounds, built-in lessons, and connectivity options. It’s an ideal choice for learning and honing your skills. 

Purchase on Amazon Here

Intermediate Keyboards (Under $500):

As you progress and gain confidence in your keyboard skills, upgrading to a more advanced instrument can enhance your playing experience. Here are two exceptional options within the $500 price range:

Yamaha P-45 Digital Piano – $499.99:

The Yamaha P-45 is a popular choice among intermediate players. It offers an authentic piano feel with its weighted keys and realistic sound. With built-in speakers, compact design, and multiple instrument voices, the P-45 provides a true piano-playing experience at an affordable price.

Purchase on Amazon Here

Advanced Keyboards (Under $800):

For more experienced players seeking professional features and exceptional sound, investing in an advanced keyboard is a wise choice. Here’s an option that offers excellent value within the under $800 range:

Roland FP-30 Digital Piano – $749.99:

The Roland FP-30 is a highly regarded digital piano that delivers an exceptional playing experience. It features 88 weighted keys with Roland’s acclaimed PHA-4 Standard keyboard action, providing a responsive and authentic piano feel. The piano’s SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine produces rich and expressive tones, while the built-in speakers ensure a clear and immersive sound experience. With additional features such as Bluetooth connectivity, USB support, and compatibility with Roland’s Piano Partner 2 app, the FP-30 offers versatility and convenience for both practice and performance.

Purchase on Amazon Here

 

As you embark on your keyboard-playing journey, selecting the right instrument within your budget is crucial. The options listed above, ranging from beginner to advanced keyboards, offer a variety of choices to suit different budgets and skill levels. Remember, the best keyboard for you is the one that ignites your passion and inspires you to create beautiful music. Happy playing!

How Dance Classes Can Help Children Develop Confidence?

How Kids Dance Lessons Can Help Children Develop Confidence
How Kids Dance Lessons Can Help Children Develop Confidence

How Kids Dance Lessons Can Help Children Develop Confidence?

Confidence is a crucial attribute that empowers children to navigate through various aspects of life with self-assurance and resilience. Engaging in dance classes offers a unique avenue for children to develop confidence in a fun and creative environment. Kids dance classes provide a range of physical, emotional, and social benefits that contribute to the growth and self-esteem of young dancers. This article will explore how dance classes can positively impact children’s confidence, helping them develop valuable life skills that extend far beyond the dance studio.

Turning the personality of you child by enrolling him in kids dance lessons

Dance classes offer more than just an opportunity to learn various dance styles and techniques. They have the power to be a game changer in terms of personality development. Dancing is a holistic activity that engages the mind, body, and emotions, providing a platform for personal growth and self-expression. In this article, we will explore how dance classes can serve as a significant catalyst in shaping and enhancing an individual’s personality, helping them develop essential life skills, and fostering overall personal growth

Body Awareness and Positive Self-Perception

Dance classes encourage children to become more aware of their bodies and physical capabilities. Children develop a greater understanding of their bodies’ strengths, coordination, and flexibility through movement and dance techniques. As they witness their progress and improvement over time, they develop a positive self-perception and a sense of accomplishment. This enhanced body awareness fosters self-confidence as children become more comfortable and accepting of their physical selves.

Mastery of Skills and Goal Setting

In dance classes, children can learn and master various dance techniques and choreography. They experience a sense of achievement and progress as they practice and refine their skills. Setting and achieving dance-related goals, such as perfecting a particular move or performing in a recital, helps build confidence in their abilities. The structured environment of dance classes teaches children the importance of dedication, perseverance, and hard work, transferable skills that can be applied to other areas of their lives.

Performance Opportunities and Public Speaking Skills

Participating in Kids dance lessons in Champlin often involves performing in front of an audience, whether in a recital, competition, or community event. These performance opportunities allow children to overcome stage fright and develop public speaking skills. Standing on stage, showcasing their skills, and receiving applause build their self-assurance and confidence. Through dance performances, children learn to communicate nonverbally, express emotions, and captivate an audience, further enhancing their self-esteem and ability to present themselves effectively in various settings.

Collaboration and Teamwork 

Dance classes provide an environment that fosters collaboration and teamwork. Children learn to work with their peers, cooperating and supporting one another to create synchronized performances. Collaborative experiences in dance help children develop social skills, empathy, and effective communication. As they contribute their talents to a collective effort, they gain confidence in their ability to be part of a team, understand the value of their contributions, and appreciate the group’s achievements.

Creative Expression and Emotional Release 

Dance offers a unique medium for children to express themselves creatively and emotionally. Children can communicate their feelings, thoughts, and experiences nonverbally through movement. This creative outlet allows them to explore and understand their emotions, building emotional intelligence and self-awareness. By expressing themselves freely and authentically in a supportive dance class environment, children develop confidence in their ability to communicate and connect with others on a deeper level.

Constructive Feedback and Growth Mindset 

In Spark Music and Dance, kids dance classes, children receive constructive feedback from their instructors, which helps them grow and improve their dance skills. Learning to accept and embrace positive and constructive feedback is a valuable lesson in building resilience and confidence. Constructive criticism teaches children to view mistakes and challenges as opportunities for growth rather than failures. This growth mindset fosters perseverance, adaptability, and self-belief, empowering children to face challenges with confidence and the belief that they can overcome obstacles through effort and dedication.

Increased Self-Expression and Individuality

Dance encourages children to embrace their individuality and express themselves authentically. Children learn to trust their instincts, make creative choices, and develop their unique style through movement. Dance classes provide a safe and supportive space for children to explore their identities, break free from inhibitions, and celebrate their strengths. Embracing their individuality in dance fosters a sense of self-acceptance and confidence, empowering children to express themselves boldly and authentically in all areas of life.

Conclusion 

Participating in Kids dance classes offers numerous benefits for children, including developing confidence and self-assurance. Dance classes provide a nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive through body awareness, skill mastery, performance opportunities, teamwork, creative expression, constructive feedback, and individuality. The skills and experiences gained in dance extend beyond the studio, positively influencing their self-esteem, resilience, and ability to face life’s challenges confidently. Encouraging children to explore the world of dance can be a transformative journey that equips them with valuable life skills, empowering them to shine both on and off the dance floor.

The Real Reasons Why Your Child Hates Music Lessons

The Real Reasons Why Your Child Hates Music Lessons

Most parents have high hopes for their kids as far as musical talents go, as they should. But these dreams can come crashing down as soon as your child expresses disinterest in their music lessons. There are several reasons why your child might not be a fan of classes right now, but the good news is you can help encourage them through their process.

As parents, you want what’s best for your child, so read on to find out why music lessons might feel like ‘torture’ to your kid and how you can show them the value of music!

 

1. They don’t like to practice.

Practicing can feel like a chore, especially when parents don’t encourage music time outside of practice. Help your child learn discipline by incorporating both practice time and playtime into their daily routines. Practicing is probably the #1 reason children hate music, but every great musician has to practice.

 

2. They don’t like their instrument.

Just because you envisioned your kid playing the violin doesn’t mean that’s their instrument of choice. Your kid might be wanting to skip on their weekly lessons simply because they aren’t excited about the instrument they play. So instead, encourage your children to play the instrument that they’re most interested in.

 

3. They feel pressured.

At the end of the day, music should be fun! Creating a positive environment around music and recognizing your child’s accomplishments will help calm their inner-critic. Feeling pressure to meet high expectations or play a particular instrument can turn any kid off their music lessons.

 

4. They don’t like their teacher.

Not every teacher is the right fit, and that’s okay. If the connection between your child and their teacher isn’t there, you both have every right to find a teacher that can meet their needs. Before immediately signing up for lessons, you and your child can plan a visit to the music school to meet prospective teachers!

 

5. They think that they aren’t musically talented.

Kids can be pretty hard on themselves, especially when they aren’t picking up a new skill quickly. But the reality is, not everyone is a musical prodigy, and most of us all start at step one. Music is a craft, and if students put their minds to it, they can find success in it. But they’ll have to push past the hurdles, just as every great musician has done.

 

Conclusion

The next time your kid says, “I hate music!” find out what they’re really saying. More often than not, they don’t actually want to stop music lessons, and likely you can help them sort out what’s truly going on. Music lessons have an incredibly positive impact on children’s lives, so don’t be quick to let your child quit their studies.

If you’re thinking about enrolling your child in music lessons, Spark School of Music is ready to work with your budding musician! Learn more about our music lessons here.

How to Find a Good Music Teacher

music teacher teaching a kid how to play piano
music teacher teaching a kid how to play piano

How to Find a Good Music Teacher

Finding the right music teacher is like finding the right friend. You want to find an instructor for yourself or your child that can provide a learning environment that is encouraging, safe, and trustworthy. Music lessons are a worthwhile investment so ensure that you find the right one by doing your research!

Here’s a step by step guide to finding a music teacher and setting up your first lesson:

Where do I find a music teacher?

First things first, you need to know where to search for your potential teacher. The search for the best music teacher out there can feel overwhelming, but rest assured, there are many easy ways to find them. Here are a couple of ideas:

1. Search for “music school” online

With just a quick Google search, you can pull up plenty of information about music teachers in your area. Be sure to read the reviews to see what past and current students have to say about the instruction.

2. Ask your friends and family

This is probably one of the best ways to find a great music teacher because you can ask people you trust! Someone in your circle is likely taking lessons, so asking your coworkers, friends, or people at church for suggestions will undoubtedly land you with a name or two.

 

What qualities should I look for in a music teacher?

So what makes a good music teacher ‘good’? Sometimes you have the option to meet with an instructor and even attend a trial lesson before committing to weekly classes, so you need to know what to look for in a teacher. Be on the lookout for the following traits in an instructor:

  • A good teacher can make the student feel confident mastering a complex skill.
  • A good teacher challenges students to accomplish goals they thought they couldn’t.
  • A good teacher listens to students’ desires and creates a personalized lesson plan.
  • A good teacher can be honest without belittling students.

 

After I’ve picked out a teacher I like, what happens next?

Once you’ve identified what you’re looking for in a teacher, all you’ve got to do is pick up the phone and call them! Then, make sure you ask them all your questions about what supplies you need for music lessons, how much it costs, cancellation policies, and more.

After you’ve covered all the basics, it should be time for you to look forward to the very first lesson!

 

Conclusion

Finding the right music teacher doesn’t have to be a feat, especially when you know what you’re looking for and have done your research. 

Still on the search for private music instructors? Spark School of Music provides personalized music lessons for adults and children ages pre-school and up!

So if you’re searching for private music lessons in Maple Grove, MN, or Blaine, MN, Spark School of Music has an incredible lineup of teachers who are passionate about nurturing musicians. 

Learn more about our private lessons and how you can schedule a trial lesson here.

The Best Ways To Motivate Your Child To Practice Piano (Without The Temper Tantrums)

child screaming because they have to practice their instrument
child with a red shirt practicing piano lessons

The Best Ways To Motivate Your Child To Practice Piano (Without The Tantrums)

We’ve all been there. Getting your kid to sit down and practice piano for an uninterrupted time can feel like pulling teeth out. It’s a slow and painful (seemingly impossible) process. Motivating your child to practice piano for their piano lessons can be challenging, but try to be empathic, and if you can, recall what it was like to sit down and be still for a full half-hour as a kid. Probably can’t, right? 

Parents, you want your kids to take the time to master the piano, so you have to encourage them to put in the work to do it. Here are 5 ways to help you motivate your child to practice the piano! 

Get creative with piano practice times. 

Playing the piano or any instrument for that matter takes intense focus and concentration. If you notice that your child struggles to concentrate during certain times of the day, take that as a cue to play around with practice times. Some parents have reported that getting their children to practice piano before school is an easy feat compared to practicing after-school when they’re tired. Try it out for yourself and see if it helps! 

Set a routine. 

So, you want your child to practice the piano like clockwork? Make it into a daily routine and teach your kids the importance of discipline and structure. If you really want to increase your chances of motivating them enough to practice regularly, let your child be in control and in charge of making their own schedule. 

Remember to make time for play. 

Practicing is necessary, but so is having fun too! Encourage your child to play the piano throughout the week just for fun. Maybe they can learn to play their favorite song or get creative and make a song of their own! Either way, don’t forget to give your child the space to be an artist. 

Create incentives with music games. 

The easiest way to trick, I mean, motivate your kid into practicing piano is by making a game out of it. Decide on a reward together that they’ll receive if they play the piano for x amount of time or master a scale or song. You can come up with your own game that works best to motivate your kid!

Be their biggest cheerleader.

Offering words and acts of encouragement to your kid is a tried-and-true method for motivating your child to practice the piano. The piano isn’t an easy instrument to master, and it’s important to highlight all the milestones along the way so that they feel motivated to keep going! Celebrate your child’s accomplishments no matter how big or small they may be. 

Options may seem slim when you feel like you’ve tried everything to encourage your child to practice, but if there’s a will, there’s always a way! Try out these tips for yourself and see if that makes practice time go a bit smoother. 

7 Tips to Encourage Your Child’s Musical Success

Parent and child playing piano, ukulele, and guitar
Parent and child playing piano, ukulele, and guitar

7 Tips to Encourage Your Child's Musical Success

So, you’ve just enrolled your child in music lessons. Congratulations! It’s an exciting time for both you and your child, and I’m sure you’re eager to set your child up for success. Learning to play a new instrument isn’t easy, and your child will need your encouragement and guidance to keep at it. 

If you’re wondering what steps you can take to set your child up for success early on, read on to learn 7 tips to help you encourage your child’s musical success starting today!

1. Consider reframing the idea of “practicing.” 

Let’s be honest. The word “practice” just feels void of fun for kids. Try to keep things light and relaxed, and consider practicing time as “playing time” instead. It feels a lot less restrictive. 

2. Be involved in the process.

Encourage your child’s musical success by showing them that you’re interested and want to be a part of their musical journey. Sit in with them during their lessons or playing time at home, and ask them questions about their music. 

3. Praise your child every step of the way.

Being your child’s biggest cheerleader goes a long way. It doesn’t matter the size of the accomplishment. Just celebrate your child’s success! There will be highs and lows throughout their experience learning music, so be sure to praise them during the highlights. 

4. Establish a routine.

It’ll be challenging to get your child into the habit of practicing for music lessons and playing regularly if they don’t have a routine. Incorporate times for music in their daily schedules so that they’ll establish discipline and good habits early on. 

5. Refrain from making negative remarks about music sounds.

Listen. Your child is a beginner and of course, listening to them play is not the same as going to a concert at Target Center. So, be careful about making negative comments because this could really discourage your child from trying to be better. Refrain from negative comments altogether, and make this rule clear to other family members, too. 

6. Introduce them to a role model.

One of the best ways to get your child excited about music and becoming a better musician is by introducing them to a positive role model. Perhaps ask a musician in your community or church to mentor your child, or you can simply prioritize taking your kid to amateur and professionals music performances. Show them that it’s possible to be a talented performer. It just takes a bit of work! 

7. Encourage others to praise your child.

They say it takes a village to raise a child, right? Your child will love to hear praises from other family members and loved ones when they accomplish a milestone, so encourage your village to say a kind word or two when you know your child could use some extra loving. 

Get excited about your child’s new musical journey because it is a special time, and before you know it, your child won’t be playing beginner’s music anymore. Encourage your child’s musical success today with these tips!

How To Choose Your Child’s First Guitar

guitar teacher showing child how to play guitar chords
guitar teacher showing child how to play guitar chords

How To Choose Your Child's First Guitar

If you aren’t a musician yourself, you’re probably aren’t well-versed in the world of guitars enough to know how to pick the right one. That’s okay because we’re here to help you! Your budding musician is likely ready to rock and roll, so let’s get right to it. 

Whether you need help choosing the right size, or you don’t have anything idea where to start, we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the right guitar for your child.

Step 1: Decide on the type of guitar. 

There are three types of guitars: acoustic, electric, and classical. Depending on what kind of music your kid likes, they will likely gravitate towards a specific guitar. Here’s a breakdown of the three different types of guitars: 

Electric Guitar

  • Smaller than an acoustic and classical guitar 
  • Great for musicians who like country, rock, or pop music 
  • Can be heavy
  • Has steel strings that can be hard on young fingers 
  • Needs an amp

Acoustic Guitar

  • Similar in shape to a classical guitar 
  • Bright and loud sound 
  • Has steel strings that can be hard on young fingers 
  • Good for contemporary music 

Classical Guitar

  • Has nylon strings that are softer for young fingers 
  • Warm and full sound
  • Tend to come in a default shape and size
  • Suitable for classical and Latin styles of music 

Step 2: Find the right size.

The last thing you want to do is do all this research just to buy a guitar that’s either too big or too small for your child. The size of the guitar matters, and if your child is having a difficult time playing their instrument, that might be a sign that the guitar isn’t a good fit. 

Electric Guitar 

  • Recommended size for ages 5-8 is 1/2 size 
  • Recommended size for ages 8-12 is 3/4 size
  • Recommended size for ages 12+ is a full size 

Acoustic Guitar 

  • Recommended size for ages 5-12 is 3/4 size 
  • Recommended size for ages 12-15 is a small body 
  • Recommended size for ages 15+ is a full size 

Classical Guitar 

  • Recommended size for ages 2-5 is 1/4 size
  • Recommended size for ages 5-8 is 1/2 size
  • Recommended size for ages 8-12 is 3/4 size
  • Recommended size for ages 12+ is a full size 

Step 3: Purchase the guitar and enroll them in lessons.

Woohoo! Now that you’ve gotten a complete breakdown of the different types of guitar, you and your child can go out and choose the best fit. Afterward, don’t waste another minute and go ahead and enroll your child in music school. Or even better, enroll them in music school before the process to receive extra help choosing the right guitar.

Your child’s guitar teacher at Spark School of Music is the ideal person to consult when you’re buying your child’s first guitar or even when you think it might be time to size up. Your child’s musical success starts with choosing the best guitar suited just for them! 

5 Positive, Confidence-Building Affirmations For Young Musicians​

happy child playing guitar
happy child playing guitar

5 Positive, Confidence-Building Affirmations For Young Musicians

Learning a new instrument isn’t always an easy rodeo. Sometimes your little musician might be feeling discouraged after their music lessons and in need of a serious pick-me-up. I’m sure you’ve tried different methods to soothe your kid when they’re frustrated by their instrument. But have you tried using positive mantras? 

Teaching your child some confidence-building affirmations is an excellent way to learn how to encourage themselves with positive self-talk. What are these affirmations, you say? Affirmations are phrases that we speak or think to ourselves, whether positive or negative. Children and adults can use positive mantras to motivate themselves, encourage positive life changes, and boost confidence. 

So, when your child feels intimidated or defeated by their instrument, pick a few feel-good, encouraging phrases for them to repeat. Here’s a lineup of 5 positive affirmations you can teach your young musician: 

 “I can learn how to do this.” 

When your child starts to feel frustrated or defeated by a challenging note, or passage they’re trying to master, this is an excellent affirmation to speak over themselves. Yes, nailing a new technique or song may be challenging, but they absolutely can learn how to do it. This affirmation is a testament to that truth! 

“I can learn from my mistake.” 

No professional musician got to where they are today without making mistakes. If your kid feels discouraged by mistakes, this positive affirmation will remind them that shortcomings are not only okay but they’re welcomed. Mistakes aren’t the end of the world, and they only present an opportunity to grow and become a better musician. 

“I can ask for help when I need it.” 

It’s not abnormal for some children to be shy when it comes to asking for help. Have your child repeat this mantra if they could use the extra boost of confidence! When they feel overwhelmed, your kid will remember that they can always ask their teachers or you for help when they need it. 

“I am doing the best that I can.” 

This positive affirmation for kids will be one they can hold onto for the rest of their life. Who couldn’t use a reminder that they’re doing the best they can? Your kid might want to compare themselves to other musicians, but the truth is, everyone has their own path, and it’s important to acknowledge their current accomplishments. 

“I am growing as a musician.” 

Not many people are born musical prodigies, so it takes time to hone a craft! Even professional musicians never stop learning. If your child needs a little boost to keep going, this affirmation will inspire them to keep looking forward to the journey! 

The best part about affirmations is that they are 100% customizable. Words are compelling and possess the unique ability to uplift people, so use them to your advantage. There’s nothing better than seeing your kid react to a stressful situation in a positive manner, and affirmations allow them to center themselves. Try these mantras out with your child, and watch their self-confidence flourish! 

Music Lesson Practice Tips

sparkschoolofmusic

PRACTICE TIPS: MAKING YOUR PRACTICE TIME MORE PRODUCTIVE

• Practice a little every day. This is more beneficial than one or two really long practice sessions every week.

• Find a quiet place to practice so you don’t have any distractions. Practice slow, and gradually speed it up.

• Set aside a specific time each day to practice. It will become part of your daily routine and make practice consistent.

• Learn each phrase at a time. Practice SLOWLY until you have it, and then move to the next phrase.

• Playing from the beginning to end, but consistently making mistakes is not productive. You’re simply practicing mistakes. Break it up into sections that are harder for you, then try to piece it all together.

Record yourself. This is a great way to listen back and see if you made mistakes that you didn’t realize. LISTEN CAREFULLY!

• Practice the hard parts. It’s fun to play the parts you like, but you’ll only get better if you practice the things that are hard.

• Always refer to your teacher’s notes and comments to be certain you are practicing the correct material.

• Play for your family and friends. It might make you nervous, but make it fun and you will become a better musician.

• Remember to stand or sit in the correct position. You don’t want to hurt yourself! Before you leave, make certain you understand everything your teacher assigned to you.

• LISTEN. Listen to your favorite music and pay attention to what your instrument is playing.