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Key Sounds UK • September 19, 2018

HOW TO STOP NAGGING YOUR CHILD TO PRACTICE

Research confirms that musical training can change the brain structure and improve long-term memory which can lead to enhanced brain development. In addition to this, the benefits of learning a musical instrument, develops a life-long skill which offers a means of enjoyment and self-expression.

Unsurprisingly, many parents who can afford these lessons most willingly spend money to give their child this experience.

The challenges that sit alongside the benefits of learning an instrument include: finding the time and motivation to practise, frustration over a perceived lack of progress, anxiety about performing in public and unhelpful beliefs about innate talent being more important than practising can make the whole process a misery.

1. Keep it fun!

Whether your child is playing their instrument or learning the music theory content feel free to allow them to use a variety of different ways to learn. Providing variety not only allows them to enjoy what they are studying but it can also enhance their understanding of more complex theories and techniques. Sticking to the book and methods of rote learning can cause their attention span to fall, so it’s best to implement variety into their practice where possible.

2. Praise their effort not their ‘talent’

Praising a child for being talented reinforces a fixed mindset around musical ability. If a child believes people are either talented or not talented, they are likely to view their own struggles with learning music as evidence they aren’t talented. Therefore, parents should praise the effort their child puts into learning their instrument. This recognises that practice makes perfect.

3. Emphasise the long-term benefits of playing

Studies show that those who spend a medium-term or long-term commitment to an instrument practice more and demonstrate higher levels of musical achievement.

4. Value your child’s music

Lessons, exams and practice schedules are all very well, but ultimately music should be a shared activity. Create an environment where music is a vital part of the household. Encourage your child to perform at family occasions and concerts. As they learn, empathise with their struggles and celebrate their triumphs.

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Online and In-Person Piano Lesson Comparison

By Reshmi Patel • February 17, 2025
If you’re thinking about learning the piano, you might be wondering: should you take lessons online or in person? The good news is that there’s no wrong choice! Both options have their perks, and the best one depends on your learning style, lifestyle, and goals. Let’s break it down! The Perks of Online Piano Lessons Flexibility: Learn at your own pace, anytime, anywhere. Access to Top Teachers: You’re not limited by location—you can study with amazing teachers worldwide. Technology & Tools: Many platforms offer interactive features like video feedback, AI-generated practice recommendations, and virtual sheet music. Affordability: Online lessons can sometimes be more budget-friendly than in-person instruction. The Benefits of In-Person Piano Lessons Immediate Feedback: Your teacher can adjust your posture, hand position, and technique instantly. Accountability: Having a set lesson schedule with a teacher can keep you motivated and consistent. Better Engagement: Some students thrive with in-person interaction and find it easier to focus. Which One is Right for You? If you love flexibility and access to global resources, online lessons might be your best bet. If you thrive on real-time interaction and hands-on guidance, in-person lessons could be ideal. Some students even choose a hybrid approach! Get in touch to find out more information here: www.keysoundsuk.com/contact .

How to Turn Piano Practice into Productive yet Playful Practice

By Reshmi Patel • February 3, 2025
Piano practice doesn’t have to feel like a chore! Adding an element of play can make it an enjoyable part of your day. 1. Turn practice into a game – use a timer and see how many times you can play a section correctly in five minutes, or create a “practice bingo” card with tasks like “play softly,” “practice scales backward,” or “play standing up.” Reward progress – aim to reward students with small treats or privileges to keep motivation high. 2. Add friendly competition to make practice more exciting. If you have siblings or friends who play, hold mini-recitals or compete to memorize a short piece the fastest. 3. Challenge yourself with personal goals – an example of this could be learning a new song in a week or improvising a melody over a chord progression. 4. Record your sessions and watch your progress – it’s inspiring to see how far you’ve come! 5. Use technology to your advantage – apps like Simply Piano or Flowkey offer interactive, gamified lessons, while YouTube tutorials provide endless inspiration. 6. Play songs you genuinely enjoy – mix favourite pop songs, movie themes, or video game music into your routine alongside classical exercises. A balance of fun and structure keeps practice fresh and exciting—because music should always be enjoyable! Get in touch to find out more information here: www.keysoundsuk.com/contact

What to Consider When Changing Your Piano Teacher

By Reshmi Patel • January 20, 2025
How Do I Know When to Change Piano Teacher? Choosing the right piano teacher can profoundly impact a child’s musical journey, but sometimes, the best path forward involves change. Before considering a switch, it’s important to recognize that every teacher brings unique strengths, and not every bump in the road signals the need for a new instructor. Challenges like a tough piece or frustration over progress are natural parts of learning. However, if a student feels consistently unmotivated or a teacher’s methods clash with their learning style, it might be time to evaluate the situation. Signs that it could be time for a change include stagnation in progress: 1. A lack of connection between teacher and student 2. A shift in the student’s goals that the current teacher isn’t equipped to support - for instance, a student focusing on advanced classical repertoire might need a specialist, while a budding songwriter may thrive with someone versed in improvisation or composition. 3. Logistical issues like scheduling or location are creating unnecessary stress - open communication with the teacher can often address these concerns, but sometimes, switching is the best option to reignite a student’s passion for playing. Switching teachers is not a failure; it’s a thoughtful decision to prioritize what’s best for the student’s growth. Musical journeys are deeply personal, and the teacher-student relationship plays a pivotal role in fostering confidence and creativity. If a switch is necessary, approach it with kindness and gratitude for the teacher’s contributions so far.  Remember, finding the right teacher is about aligning with the student’s evolving needs, and making that change can be a powerful step toward nurturing a lifelong love for music. Get in touch to find out more information here: www.keysoundsuk.com/contact
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