Is there something in your life that you have always wanted to try but haven’t had the chance too?
There is still time!
Starting something new is a challenge and can be intimidating, but learning can happen at any age.
I was inspired today by two new guitar students. A father and son. The father bought a guitar a decade ago but never really had the time to learn. He recently dusted it off, determined to start again. His love for music has inspired his nine-year-old son to learn to play too!
Teaching two students at once can be a challenge. Add family dynamics into the mix and it is hard to know if things will go smoothly.
But this lesson was a fun! I was so impressed by how encouraging and supportive the father was. He set such a great example for his son with his positive attitude and openness to learn.
While I am a professional educator, I make sure to emphasize to my students that I am still actively studying music. I like to view lessons as an opportunity for both of us to learn alongside one another. The only difference between us is that I have spent more time putting effort into this particular practice!
I think my younger student is lucky to have a dad who is so willing to be vulnerable and learn something completely new alongside him.
We were together for an hour, which is a long time for a nine-year-old who has never touched the guitar. We made sure to take breaks and rest our hands and took lots of time to clap out rhythms and talk about the music we enjoy. It was amusing to talk about the contrasts in their music tastes (Dad loves Dave Matthews while his son likes Post Malone). We started listening to music together and when I played funk music for them this kid lit up! Both his Dad and I were excited too.
Encourage those around you to learn! Remember that beginning a new skill requires starting from scratch. The fact that you don’t know anything yet is the point of it all!
When figuring out where to begin, look for active learners who are farther along in their journeys to encourage you and point you in the right direction.