There are lots of choices for school activities - isn’t music just another social opportunity?

It is true that musicians share a love of music and talking about their experiences. Music encourages qualities which most employers value, such as teamwork, careful attention to details, following directions precisely, and self confidence. However, if your student would rather play volleyball, that's what your student should do.

Wanting to play is really important!

Learning how to play an instrument is an opportunity for the student to prove that they can achieve - to bolster their own self confidence.

Music teaches team work, listening and great attention to detail--qualities most employers value.

How likely is it that my student will practice? Will I have to nag?

Parents who have decided on a musical experience for their student can affect the outcome. Students are far more likely to practice if most of the following conditions are true -

The student is playing the instrument they really love, or have always wanted to play. The student feels in charge of their music study, and gets to play the music THEY choose. The student believes their family supports their study and LIKES their music. The student actually thinks their own playing is pretty good and getting better.

Is this an expensive but quickly passing fad?

Yes, if the student experiences no immediate reward for all the complex terms, concepts, practice, class time, and expense. If the student thinks their own sound and performance are poor and not improving, they will give up.

Why take music lessons? Won’t band supply what my student needs to know?

Band class concentrates on teaching a group of 50 to 80 students how to play music together. Imagine having 50 minutes to get everyone into their seat, with instrument and music ready, attendance taken, and then get work done. There isn't time for individual instruction.

The professional music teacher will provide 30 minutes of attention for your student. This person will have a development plan, including sheet music choices, encouragement, demonstrations, duets, and musical problem solving help. This coach will nurture your student's self confidence and musical abilities.

Students who start with professional help will be far more successful than students who are left with just a book and band class.

What can parents do to make the musical experience positive for the entire family?

The families I have worked with have shared the following suggestions and experiences. Family attitude and environment make a difference.

• Students and family should discuss music they experience in everyday life, sharing what they liked, didn't like, were curious about.
• Families should attend concerts of the music they enjoy - any musical experience is positive reinforcement.

• Where possible, share music with your student. Explain what you especially liked a tune or your own musical preferences. Students may find they enjoy Elvis or Kelzmer when a parent has shared their own recordings. In a spirit of fun, play music with your student, or find tunes that are sing along.

How do we define musical success?

Students decide if they are successful just by listening to their own playing and hearing improvement. Short familiar tunes help students enjoy the early learning process. Early and continual success encourages continued study. When you’re having fun, why stop?

People who enjoy music pass this love on to their own families. Enjoying music and passing on your positive experiences is the goal of music education.

Is there special equipment my student could use?

pocket metronome - pocket tuner - music stand - 3 inch wide soft cloth to swab out the flute - music bag to organize musical belongings - CD’s by professional musicians so your student can emulate their sound and styles

What should we know about student flutes?

These instruments are very delicate and cannot survive rolling across the lap or any other rough handling. Nothing should ever be poked into the workings. Please do not use polish on a flute.

Where can we find sheet music my student really likes?

A great learning tool for younger students are sheet music collections that include a CD of accompaniment -- their own backup band.

Local music stores, such as
Beaverton Music (12630 SW First St, Beaverton 503/ 643-5431),
MIR Music in Hillsboro (246 E Main St 503/ 693-0434), and
Portland Sheet Music (10075 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy 503/ 641-5691),
have a selection of sheet music for young flautists.

There are solos, duets, trios and music for flute and guitar or flute and clarinet. There are collections of current artists, including country western, musicals, jazz, blues and rock. Find what you love and enjoy!