One of the most valuable and popular activities we offer is after school music lessons. Instruction is given for most instruments, including piano, voice, guitar, violin, trombone, clarinet, saxophone, cello, and more.
“How many times have you heard someone say, with regret, ‘I wish I had taken piano lessons when I was a kid,’ “ said Andy Street, Lower Campus Performing Arts Coordinator. “Now is the time to consider enrolling your child in music lessons, and I promise you will not regret it.”
All lessons are offered on a semester basis on school premises, by experienced professional teachers, and competitively priced with other private lessons. Parents can enroll their children in individual music lessons at registration, or before, by completing the Music Lesson Agreement Form. Lessons will begin second and third week of the new semester.
Many educators and institutions have outlined the advantages of learning a musical instrument, but many of the benefits are evident in our everyday lives. Mr. Street lists the following as reasons to consider individual music lessons beyond what is offered in the OVS performing arts program:
1. Music improves memory skills.
2. Coordination. (“Imagine playing a cymbal with your left hand, a snare drum with your right, a high hat stand with your left foot and a bass drum with your right foot,” Mr. Street said, “That’s what drummers do!”)
3. Perseverance leading to a sense of achievement.
4. Music and Math. Music can be an extremely supportive resource to a child’s developing math skills.
5. Reading and comprehension. Musicians work in Italian and German as well as English.
6. Responsibility. After school lessons foster a sense of responsibility, including showing up on time, remembering your instrument and practicing.
7. Exploration of other cultures and their history. Music is intertwined with all the other arts.
8. Listening skills. Listening to your teacher. Listening to the sounds you are making. Listening to others when you play in a group.
9. Self-expression and creativity. Music is an important part of a child’s development. Music is an ideal vehicle for expression. It transcends all cultures, languages, ages and genders.
10. Social skills and teamwork.like playing on a athletic team, brings a unique experience to a young person. Social skills, including being polite and listening to your teacher, are a necessary part of any lesson.