1. Are you good at any kind of music?
People say that I’ve got a knack for music and that I have good musical instincts. I can often predict what’s going to happen in a song because I know about musical theory. Despite this, I can’t really play any instruments. I learnt the violin when I was ten years old but I felt it was too hard for me and I was going nowhere, so I quit after a short while. I sometimes think that if I’d make more of an effort then I might be a skilled violinist by now, but it was not to be I guess. Maybe I should take up playing the guitar instead.
2. Do you think it is good for children to listen to music?
Definitely. Scientists think that being exposed to music early in life increases a child’s ability to think creatively and intelligently. Even if that weren’t the case, music is a wonderfully expressive art form that should be enjoyed by people of all ages. If children listen to music then they can learn a lot about the world and other people through lyrics, and begin to understand some of the issues people face in life. Listening to music is also really good fun and can be a way for children to enjoy themselves. In fact, I can’t think of a single reason why someone would think children shouldn’t listen to music.
3. How do you feel about children learning to play a musical instrument?
Learning a musical instrument is a real challenge, but it’s also extremely rewarding. Some may say that a child learning a complicated instrument is a bit over the top. They argue that a child’s life is stressful enough without the added pressure of learning a musical instrument, but we actually learn best when we are children and I’m sure the child will appreciate it after a few years when they can play beautiful music. As adults we often regret not learning an instrument in school and feel that we have no time now to learn, or we are too old to start. Learning to play an instrument takes dedication and concentration, which are valuable skills to develop as a child. Learning to play an instrument is therefore a great way for a child to get a head start in life.
4. Do you think it's important for schools to have music classes for children?
Definitely. Music classes introduce music to children at an early age and to those who otherwise would have no access to music. By fostering an interest in music early in a child’s life then they are set for life. They’re more likely to take up a musical instrument or sing in a choir. Music classes can educate us about the role music plays in our daily lives that we might otherwise take for granted, such as soundtracks to movies or TV shows. Without music classes many children would grow up having very little knowledge of music beyond what they experience through the media or on the radio and this would waste a lot of potential.
