Let's Play Music is intentionally different from traditional piano lessons. It's so different that we don't even label it as a piano program; it is a three-year total musicianship program.
That might leave parents wondering:
Will my child learn proper piano technique in Let's Play Music!?
A Piano Dilemma
First, a quick reminder that Let's Play Music was created in large part to solve a specific dilemma. We know piano has a star role in early musicianship education, but children don't have full development and control of motor function in their hands until about age 8. Should we wait until children are 8 to teach piano, given their motor skill development? No!
Furthermore, early childhood is crucial for ear training and musical sensitivity. Starting with instruments early, like piano, lays a solid foundation. For 4- and 5-year-old children, however, piano can frustrate due to finger strength. Let's Play Music tackles this issue in two ways.
First, we spend a year playing the autoharp and bells. Students have a whole year to let the brain and ears lay a foundation of how music works, how notes work, how chords work, how rhythm works.
Second, we teach piano technique during 2nd Year and 3rd Year with simple technique drills. We teach technique exercises including relaxation, proper position at the piano, posture, loose wrists, and curved fingers using Bubble Hands! But 5-7 year olds aren't going to have the motor skills to develop perfect technique.
So, should we avoid teaching piano to children under 8? No! Instead of expecting perfect technique, we prioritize all aspects of musicianship. You might feel disappointed about less focus on technique now, but later, you'll appreciate a well-rounded musical education.
But did you know? Presto!, a course from Making Musicians, teaches students ages 7-12 the same skills as taught in Let's Play Music. The program is also more focused on technique training... because the students are ready for it!
Little fingers aren't very strong. So, why start students on intervals and chords right away? It's tougher than single-note melodies, but from a musical perspective, chords are the proper foundation. Many familiar songs can be harmonized with I, IV, and V chords, empowering students to create music from the start. Even with small hands, students can modify chord playing—root and 5th or just the root—to ensure everyone experiences success and joy in making music. Hand strength will develop over time; what matters now is fostering musical understanding and inspiration.
The Graduate and the Novice
An 8-year-old graduate of Let's Play Music excels in theory, composition, ear training, notation reading, transcribing, and improvisation, with disciplined daily practice. However, their technical skills may lag behind peers starting piano without a musical background. This poses a small challenge for teachers, but it is addressed through our Connections Program offering free materials.
At age 8, children are flexible and gaining dexterity, making any technical shortcomings temporary. Practicing with limited knowledge of technique doesn't hinder their potential; in fact, early playing can strengthen developing muscles, much like learning to walk before skating. A private teacher will recognize the student's musical gifts and gladly help bridge any technical gaps to nurture their overall musical talent.
Igniting the Passion
In Let's Play Music we encourage students to create music immediately with chords, emphasizing creativity over technical perfection. It's about igniting passion early on. Later, there's time for refining technique, but now is the time to nurture excitement and creativity that will sustain them through years of technical practice.