Music education for kids is instrumental in personal development
Music reaches people in ways that other forms of communication can’t.
It’s present throughout our lives, from lullabies sung to us as babies to celebrations sung at birthdays. Along the way, there is music at pivotal points and as background to everyday living.
It’s hard to imagine a world without music, but its impact goes beyond mere enjoyment. Music is instrumental in personal development and growth.
‘There are many benefits to kids taking music classes”, says Amelia W. Fulmer, director of The Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center Flagler Auditorium and a leading advocate for the arts and arts education in the region.
Located in Palm Coast, the Flagler Auditorium is Flagler County’s premier performing arts center for the community.
“Taking music classes is about developing confidence and skills for life,” Fulmer says.
Students can easily embark on a lifelong journey of music, and parents can be that tour guide that directs them down the path.
“Sign your child up for music classes in school or after school. Most schools have programs during the school day,” Fulmer says.
She notes that music classes should be fun and centered around learning to achieve and practice. Music classes develop skills well beyond the notes, says Fulmer, including:
Developing routines
Working with others
Learning how to practice a new skill
Learning how to dedicate time to practice every day
“They will witness the dramatic effect of music achievement in a short time,” she says. “Learning to do little things daily adds up quickly, especially in music.”
Another benefit is self-confidence.
“Children gain confidence in music because the results of their learning happen in just a few weeks. Once they see the result of their practice, they apply this skill to other academic areas,” says Fulmer.
Remind your child that learning a new instrument is really difficult at first, but everyone starts that way. The reward is at the end of the journey, a journey of grit and perseverance.”
Fulmer says to boost a child’s confidence even more by videoing them when they start and then playing them the video six months later; they will clearly see how far they’ve come.
“Achievement makes learning fun,” she says. “Your child may not get to play in Carnegie Hall, but they will have learned something more important, that a little practice goes a long way.”
The Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center Flagler Auditorium is Flagler County’s premier performing arts center. Visit www.FlaglerAuditorium.org to learn more.
