What is the Best Age to Start Learning Music? Is it Ever Too Late?
It’s a common question: What is the best age to start learning music?
The truth is, it varies widely, and perhaps even more importantly, it is never too late to begin.
How young is too young?
If you’re a parent, you might be wondering “What is the right age to introduce my child to music?”
Research suggests that early exposure to music can be beneficial. Some experts recommending starting as young as three or four years old.
“Isn’t that too young?” you might ask.
But experts have found that children are often more receptive at 3-4 years as their brain development is ripe for absorbing new skills. In a nutshell, early music education can enhance cognitive abilities, improve language skills, and foster creativity.
Do you recommend kids between 3-4 years old to have structured music lessons?
The thought of sending your 3-4 year old to a structured music lesson might be daunting if you’re a parent. You might worry about your child’s ability to focus, the financial commitment of lessons, and whether or not their interest in music would fade over time.
Our recommendation?
It’s essential to remember that music should be fun at this age.
It would be ideal to weave music seamlessly into your daily activities, letting your kids explore instruments in a low-pressure environment.
We always ask 3 questions when a parent asks us if their 3-4 year old is ready to learn music with us:
Are they able to focus for 30 minutes?
Are they able to sit with their teacher without their (the parents’ presence)?
Have they shown a genuine interest in music?
If you answer “YES” to all of these questions - we would encourage you to sign your child up to try their first class. If lessons do commence, it’s perfectly fine to start with shorter sessions tailored to a child’s attention span.
If you answer “Not yet” to any of the above questions, we’d encourage you to keep including music as a part of your everyday life at home - and reach out when they’re able to focus, sit with their teacher without parent supervision and show a genuine interest in music.
What are some things I should consider before enrolling my teenager into music lessons?
As children grow into teenagers, their interests and commitments often evolve. Many teens might express that they want to take up an instrument or pursue singing, driven by peer influences or a newfound passion for a specific genre.
This age can present unique challenges, including balancing schoolwork, social lives, and extracurricular activities.
For parents, a common worry is that starting lessons at this age means a student will never reach a proficient level comparable to those who started young.
It’s important to debunk this myth.
While younger beginners may have more time to master skills, the teenager’s motivation and determination can lead to remarkable progress.
In fact, many professional musicians began their journeys in their teens or later - including:
Susan Boyle - Who gained worldwide fame after her audition on "Britain's Got Talent" at the age of 47, Boyle's powerful voice and emotional performances captivated audiences. Her debut album, "I Dreamed a Dream," became one of the best-selling albums of all time.
Sharon Jones - After years of working in a variety of jobs, Jones began her professional singing career in her mid-40s. As the lead singer of Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, she became a leading figure in the revival of soul music, known for her dynamic performances.
Leonard Cohen - Although he was already an established poet and novelist, Cohen didn’t release his first album until he was 33. His unique blend of intricate lyrics and folk melodies made him a legendary figure in music history.
Bill Withers - Withers started his music career in his mid-30s after working in various jobs. His timeless hits like "Lean on Me" and "Ain't No Sunshine" are celebrated for their emotional depth and relatability.
J.K. Simmons - While primarily known as an actor, Simmons released his debut jazz album, "J.K. Simmons: Jazz," at the age of 65. His passion for music has been a lifelong pursuit, often intertwining it with his acting career.
Rodney Atkins - After years of persevering through personal struggles, including setbacks in his career, Atkins found success in country music in his 30s. His hit singles resonate with themes of resilience and hope.
These musicians not only highlight the diversity in musical journeys but also inspire others to pursue their artistic dreams at any age.
For teenagers, we need to note that encouragement is key.
Support their passion by providing the tools they need, whether it’s a quality instrument, lessons, or simply allowing them the time to practice. Even if a teen expresses an interest in joining band or choir, participation can foster a sense of belonging that extends beyond music.
Should I start learning music as an adult? Is it too late to start later in life?
For adults contemplating music lessons, the common notion that it’s too late to start often clouds the excitement of pursuing music. But, numerous people regularly take up instruments in their adulthood, and many go on to achieve great things, whether for pleasure, personal growth, or even community performance.
Starting as an adult comes with its benefits, such as the ability to set personal goals and a clearer understanding of what dedication means.
Concerns about being “too old” often stem from a fear of making mistakes or feeling out of place among younger learners.
However, music communities are diverse and welcoming. Adult music programs provide a shared space for individuals who appreciate the joy and challenge of making music together.
Moreover, learning an instrument or voice as an adult can serve as a great stress reliever and a way to express emotions that might otherwise remain unspoken. Engaging in music can promote mental well-being and offer a fulfilling avenue for personal expression.
The Journey Is Yours
Ultimately, there is no single “best age” to start learning music. Each individual’s journey is unique and can be enriched at any stage of life.
Whether you’re introducing music to a young child, encouraging a teen, or embarking on a new adventure as an adult, the essence of music lies in its ability to connect us with our innermost selves.
So, whenever you or a loved one feels ready to pick up an instrument or dive into vocal lessons, remember: it’s never too late.
The joy of music is for every age. Embrace the journey, and let the melodies carry you forward!
If you’ve been thinking about learning an instrument, we’d love to connect with you.
Music on Purpose is a music studio based in Maroubra and the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, NSW. We offer piano lessons, guitar lessons and vocal / singing lessons for students of all ages. Adults included! We’ve got incredible piano, singing and guitar teachers who genuinely care for their students and tailor their lessons to meet each of their students’ learning needs and desires.
Click below if you’re looking for music lessons in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney! We’d love to hear more about you, and how we can best help you