Music lessons can begin at any age – you are never too old to learn a musical instrument, particularly if you have played one before or already know how to read music. Many people sadly don’t go with their ambition to learn to play an instrument they have always been interested in because they feel that they are just ‘over the hill’. True, a younger student will find the dexterity and memory elements easier but you have the advantage of time and dedication. Don’t underestimate these factors if you are considering having music lessons.
Apart from those younger students who are clearly destined to make music their career Piano Lessons, how many teenagers either can or will give up an hour a day to learn an instrument? There is also the cost of the music lessons themselves – you are independent, they are dependent upon parental funding which may have to be split with siblings.
Before you book your music lessons, make sure that your tutor is used to giving tuition to more mature students. For example, if a tutor is geared up to tutoring children, they may have a child-sized instrument for the student to play on. They will certainly have a good selection of child-friendly music which will probably not be to your taste.
Another factor of music lessons for younger students is that they are probably being aimed towards Grade Examinations. If you want the same then that is fine but it may be that you are more interested in playing ‘what you want to play’ than practicing set pieces over and over again in preparation for a formal exam. It’s your call – you decide what your goal is and make sure that the tutor pitches each lesson accordingly.
If you are retired, you may be able to get a special price for having tuition out of peak hours (weekdays 4pm to 8pm and any time at weekends). Private tuition is not cheap so don’t be afraid to haggle if you can offer daytime work to your tutor.
Don’t let anyone discourage you from having music lessons. Without doubt, playing a musical instrument will reduce stress and keep you mentally and physically active. It is an excellent way of prolonging life and improving health and if you get good enough, you can even play in front of a few chosen friends!