EDUCATION EDITION
Tuning in LOCAL MUSICIANS AND EXPERTS EXPAND ON SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF TAKING UP AN INSTRUMENT AT A YOUNG AGE ON BEAT
WORDS BY ALEX FICE
media platforms that prioritise short-form content, it’s no wonder attention spans are said to be decreasing. Nurturing the ability to focus and enter a deep state of concentration is a fundamental skill that can help in many different areas of life; learning an instrument lets children put this into practice on a daily basis. 3. TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS Setting a routine for regular practice is a vital ingredient for seeing progress when learning an instrument. This means juggling practice with other activities, such as rehearsals, clubs, homework and downtime – introducing children to the concept of time management and self-discipline. 4. ABILITY TO PICK UP NEW SKILLS Learning a musical instrument from a young age can help lay the foundation for a lifetime of music making and skill building. “Music was a pivotal part of my development from primary school
t’s well known that learning an instrument can add plenty more strings to your bow than improved musicality alone. We spoke to Libby Summers, violin teacher and owner of Stamford Strings, and Carrie Rawlings, founder and leader of The Collaboration Choir, to hear all about these benefits… 1. IMPROVED COGNITIVE ABILITY There’s been a lot of research into the benefits to the brain of learning an instrument, with clear indications that it helps improve memory and reasoning skills, as well as hand-eye coordination. “Music has been proven to have developmental benefits,” says Libby. “In children and those with degenerative diseases, it vastly improves cognitive function and skills.” 2. BETTER CONCENTRATION With so many forms of instant entertainment and a prevalence of social
Let’s get started! LOCAL SHOP MILLERS MUSIC SHARES ITS TOP TIPS FOR STARTING INSTRUMENT LEARNING:
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY! Where possible, rent before
purchasing your instrument to make sure you’re happy with it and ready to commit to lessons. No one wants to invest in a brand-new instrument, only for it to sit gathering dust!
LEARN IN A WAY THAT SUITS YOU
These days, you don’t just have to go the traditional route of learning with a teacher. There are also teach-yourself books and apps available that can help you get to grips with the basics. FIND THE RIGHT TEACHER FOR YOU If you choose to have lessons with a teacher, don’t be afraid to swap if you aren’t enjoying yourself or seeing progress. Each teacher is different – don’t be scared to ask around! KEEP A DIARY Once you’ve settled on the right instrument, start a progress diary. It’s a great motivational tool that will help you see how far you have come.
QUALITY QUARTET Stamford Strings specialises in servicing, repairing, restoring and selling all things string!
78 SEPTEMBER 2022 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
Powered by FlippingBook