Over The Waves

 

Confidence

Of the "three C's" of child development - concentration, coordination and confidence - the third "C", confidence, may be the most important of all. How many young children, let alone, adults, truly have the confidence it takes to enjoy life to its fullest?

Learning to play the piano at a young age is one of the finest methods of instilling confidence in a child. Psychologists and music therapists have expounded on the positive attributes that result when children study the piano - most notably in the areas of improved academic performance, better social interaction and the ability to overcome the fear of failure, to feel "special" about themselves.

Although linked closely with concentration and coordination, confidence is the attribute that may be less identifiable at first, although it reappears consistently throughout a child's development. You can see it in how a child acts around his schoolmates, desires to be more assertive in class, and starts to "take the lead" in making decisions. Self-esteem results when a child learns something constructive and develops a sense of mastery. This doesn't mean playing a song to perfection, but simply the ability to improve and complete assignments that at one time seemed overwhelming.

Piano lessons help a child gain this sense of accomplishment and well being in two ways. One, the child develops a close bond with a music teacher, who, by educating and encouraging the student, helps him or her feel a sense of worth. Second, the child is left alone to practice and, in turn, learns by himself or herself. These "practice sessions" help a child become aware of his or her abilities and gain self-confidence by expressing a sense of achievement. This interaction with the piano challenges a child and brings out positive attitudes and habits that improve learning and aid in growth an maturity.

The paramount object of piano lessons is to help develop well balanced human beings, capable of setting and achieving their highest goals. To get there it takes the power of concentration, coordination and confidence. . .which is often disguised as the power of positive thinking.

---

 
"AMERICA IS STILL THE GREATEST MUSIC NATION IN THE WORLD"

  I am Music | Music Facts | Language | Healing | Concentration | Coordination | Confidence | Creativity