As a piano teacher, I have had too many talented kids quit after 2-3 years because they hate to practice. They love to play but hate to practice. Well, who doesn't? I am so sick of parents who allow their kids to "weasel" out of music education because they complain too much. Why is it so difficult to get in the habit of a regular practice time and to take it a seriously as they do their kids regular school homework? Music should be as important to a child's education as, say math or social studies. Music opens up a whole new world of social opportunities for kids and helps keep them involved and out of trouble. These kids who quit when they get bored are the same ones that will come to me as adults for lessons and say "I use to play as a kid. How I wish my parents had made me keep it up!" I thank my Mom every day for pushing me to keep playing. Quitting was never an issue. The piano is now an integral part of my career as a choral director and voice/piano teacher. I can't imagine what my life would be like without it.
To Susan Schneider-why not try another instrument, or even choir?
Tina Harris tinamharris@h... http://members.home.net/tinamharris/welcome.html
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