Parents who are thinking for their children to learn to play musical instruments can begin by harnessing their child's own instrument, the singing voice. Choosing the best musical instrument for one's child is a challenge and requires more thinking. From experience, this writer thinks that the best instrument in which children can easily start learning to use, is the instrument they already have, a singing voice!

 

Child's Singing Voice

The singing voice as a musical instrument is the cheapest of all instruments because it is available, it's free. It is also a pleasurable activity. An easy way in which children can become musical is by repeating songs they like, at home or with their friends. It is always a blessing when the child comes from a musical family, or a family that loves to sing together.

Effects of Singing

If children are encouraged to sing early on in life, their voices become an actual instrument which can be used effectively. It can also be a confidence builder for self-esteem. Singing enhances good health, as the very act of singing encourages a release of the body's natural pain killers and mood enhancers. By itself, it is a release. 

 

Singing is an excellent way to develop breathing, posture, pulse and rhythm, among other qualities vital to instrumental lessons. Singing can bring immense satisfaction.

Step Up to More Exposure

As the child grows to become a teenager, singing is enhanced by groups such as choirs, glee clubs, and even the use of Karaoke.Children should have the opportunity to sing at school, either with classmates as part of the music curriculum, or by joining a choir.

Parents should try to make the most of every opportunity for their children to sing, whether with a formally rehearsed choir tackling a serious repertoire, a school vocal ensemble, or an amateur musical show which offers a stage experience. Church choirs are almost always keen to recruit new members.

Moving on to Lessons

When considering individual lessons for older children, look for a voice music teacher who understands the needs of a child's voice at different ages. Great care should be taken when nurturing young voices. It is possible to inflict lifelong damage by demanding that a young voice does things for which it is not yet ready.

Parents should not try to pass on to their children their own anxieties if they had negative or untoward singing experiences as a child.

Sooner or later, the child's leanings and interests can be seen as a stepping stone in deciding whether to take a greater interest in singing or move on to learn another musical instrument.  

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