“Life would be perfect if I never learned to play an instrument!”*
*Said no one. Ever.
There is a misconception that making music requires an innate talent without which success is impossible. While talent is helpful, the ability to play a musical instrument is actually a skill.
What’s the difference between a skill and a talent?
A skill is learned proficiency to perform a certain task while a talent is the innate ability to do something. The ability to play a musical instrument is a skill that is developed over time through practice. Talent can accelerate this learning, but it is not a substitute for putting in the effort.
This is great news!
What this means is that anyone, regardless of talent, can learn to make music through dedication and effort. I’ve been asked more times than I can count “What’s the easiest instrument?” I always answer the same way: “They’re all hard if you don’t practice.” Talent is useful; skills are essential.
Now you may be thinking that it’s unlikely your child will pursue a career in music performance. You’re absolutely right! The chances of becoming a rock star or major symphony orchestra musician are quite small, but that’s just scratching the surface of what is possible. I personally pursued a completely different career path in music by working as an orchestra librarian. That led to jobs working for the Philadelphia Orchestra, Boston Symphony, and the Naples (FL) Philharmonic. I’ve worked for an international sheet music distributor and now own a retail music store. I’ve been places and met people I could not have imagined that first day when I decided I wanted to play trumpet. Even if I had chosen a different career path, I would still have a love for music that can come only through having participated in making it. School music has opened doors to me that I didn’t even know were there.
There are three necessary elements to succeeding in music: education, motivation, and equipment. Your child has the opportunity to learn this new skill through the school music program. Your family is motivated to participate since you are reading this to investigate your options. We will supply the last missing piece: the instrument and equipment that will help your child realize their musical dreams. We’re excited to partner with you as you embark on this adventure.
Drew Holmes
Owner, Boomer Music Company