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Sports and activity information for the ALL STAR in your house |
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Parent's Guide to children playing the Trumpet
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AGE GROUP BOYS AND GIRLS 9- ADULT
The trumpet is a brass instrument with terrific sound and it is a great starting point for a child learning music. It has fewer mechanical parts and therefore more durable than many other instruments for children.
What age should my child start lessons? The recommended age to start a child in trumpet lessons is 9 years. The lessons will teach your child the proper position for holding the instrument. They will focus on embouchure (the way you shape your mouth while playing), sound repertoire, finger placement, and music reading. The trumpet is perhaps the most versatile instrument in the brass family. Trumpet players can progress from jazz and pop to classical and rock.
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Registration
for music can be
done at anytime, as long as space is available, and your session will be
prorated. Registration can be done in person, by phone, by mail or
fax. In addition, some organizations will allow you to register on
line.
Normally these programs are very popular and space can be limited so
don't delay registration or you may miss out! Music programs are
usually 16 -20 week sessions. |
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COMMITMENT REQUIREMENTS How much practice is necessary? As with anything, improving in music takes practice. One of the major problems with children and music is the drudgery of practicing. There is no set time, however your child must spend quality time each day reviewing what they were taught. Trumpet practice must be concentrated and focused. Set the same time every day to practice so that it becomes part of a routine or habit. For young children 20 or 30 minutes seems like an eternity and they spend more time watching the clock then practicing. Instead of setting a time frame, use repetition as your gauge. For example have your child play each piece 3 - 5 times per day. The child does not pay attention to the amount of time they are practicing but knows that they are on the third time and almost finished. Ideally, your child should have a place to practice without distractions and it should not disrupt the household. If the home is small then you should consider the instrument chosen. A very large instrument or a noisy instrument could be very disruptive and you may not have the room for it. How long are sessions? Depending on the instrument and the skill level of the child lessons will run either 30, 45 or 60 minutes per week. Lessons are scheduled on an individual basis. Your registration reserves you a time slot for the duration of your instruction period. It is imperative that you arrive promptly for your lesson. They will normally give you only one make-up lesson per session and any other that the child misses will be a forfeiture of that lesson. Recitals... Formal and informal recitals are an important part of the music program. They will offer your child the opportunity to perform, listen and learn proper recital etiquette. These recitals are not mandatory but it is to your child's advantage for them to participate.
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COST REQUIREMENTS
Cost
of lessons? The cost of music lessons has four components:
Music Lessons... The cost for lessons would depend on whether your child is taking private or group lessons, the length of the class and the qualifications of the instructor. Music sessions will run for 16 -20 weeks. As a general indication, most instruments will be $25 - $40 for a 30 minute lesson, $35 -$50 for a 45 minute lesson and $50 - $60 for a 60 minute lesson. Some organizations offer family discounts and group rates. Many students enjoy taking lessons with their family or friends. Instrument Cost... The cost of the instrument would depend on whether you rent or purchase the instrument. Initially, your best option is to rent a trumpet from your local music store.If you rent the instrument it is usually done on a three month trial basis that will automatically turn into a year contract if the instrument is not returned. You can pay the cost all once at the beginning or they will automatically bill your credit card on a monthly basis. It will cost you approximately $150.00 for the year. If you choose to purchase the instrument you have the option of purchasing a new or used instrument. A used instrument will be substantially cheaper and many times are like new. Long-term dedicated students should purchase a trumpet at some point in their development. A student trumpet will normally work for the first three years but as the player excels they will need to move to a more expensive instrument. A student trumpet will cost about $400.00 or $700.00 dollars, Intermediate trumpets will cost approximately $900.00 or more and the starting price for a professional is $1500.00 with an average cost of $1800.00. Materials... Initially, the materials required will be a method book. Some music stores will include the book with the rental of the instrument. In addition, some musical accessories could be recommended depending on the instructor. For instance, music stands, portable CD players, microphones or instrument stands may be required. Recital cost.... Competitions and
recitals are a wonderful way for your child to show their abilities to
the world and it is extremely exciting for them. However, many
recitals and competitions often have entry fees. You will need to
discuss with child's instructor their philosophy on this subject. School
recitals are usually free of charge. |
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EQUIPMENT REQUIRED Initially, your best option is to rent a trumpet from your local music store. If you rent the instrument it is usually done on a three month trial basis that will automatically turn into a year contract if the instrument is not returned. It will cost you approximately $150.00 for the year. Long-term dedicated students should purchase a trumpet at some point in their development. A student trumpet will normally work for the first three years but as the player excels they will need to move to a more expensive instrument. A student trumpet will cost about $400.00 or $700.00 dollars, Intermediate trumpets will cost approximately $900.00 or more and the starting price for a professional is $1500.00 with an average cost of $1800.00. More information to be found in our Size and Style of Trumpets section. You will need to purchase valve oil to keep the valves moving quickly and smoothly. A mouthpiece brush and cleaning snake to help keep the trumpet in good working condition. A music stand and method book will be required. It will cost you between $30.00 and $50.00 to purchase these items.
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GENERAL INFORMATION Did you know.... Realize that the instrument that your child begins with may not necessarily be the one that they stay with forever. They are however, learning the basics of music theory and harmony that can be easily converted to another instrument. You will know when your child is ready to enter competition when he/she feels extremely confident and is willing to play in front of people. This is the best sign that your child is ready to go out and be judged for their performance. Rewards work very well for children. Be sure to grant an occasional simple reward to help encourage practice. Stickers are a great way to show approval. Praise also tends to be a great reward; there is no substitution for a pat on the back for a job well done. Instruments are very delicate and should always be protected from heat, cold and quick changes in temperature. It is important to properly maintain your instrument at all times. |
