The quick answer is: Opinions vary widely on this topic.  

Young students – seem to have a natural attraction to music, especially the classics.  When to start training depends on each child’s physical capability. Age 7 is often preferred by some professionals, especially for the piano. However, age 4 is possible for the piano.  Obviously the child’s physical size factors in the decision. The instrument needs to be appropriately sized to fit the student. The training course must fit the student’s age. 

Many research projects have validated the multiple benefits of music training for young people. The piano is commonly the preferred starting instrument.   Mainly because no special fingering has to be learned (as compared to a violin or clarinet, etc.) just to play it. The piano fingering is, in comparison, fairly straight forward.

Naturally your youngster will practice with more enthusiasm on an instrument they like and have chosen. Vocal training should be considered also to enhance their education.

Many private teachers have minimum age requirements, for example – age seven.  Some will accept a pupil under certain situations such as already being obviously gifted.  Assuming you are seeking a private instructor for your child you may chose to interview more than one teacher.  Starting formal training at age three is very unusual for any student.

Sometimes a child knows what their preference is at a very early age, and you can’t seem to alter their choice.  Consider all the world class athletes and musicians who started as young children.

It appears to all boil down to your personal commitment as the parent.  How involved are you planning to be? Do you already have an instrument? Several options exist for you.

For the rest of us, of any age – any age is OK to begin, but your attitude is a very important consideration.  For example:

Preteens – perhaps the prime age to begin music lessons.

Teens – great learners, if interested.  Consider a guitar for maximum portable entertainment.

Young adults – less free time, perhaps, still great students – taking lessons deliberately.

Middle age adults – same situation, probably won’t desire to be performers.

Seniors – just do it.  It’s all about motivation. There may not be enough time left to learn and master advanced technical skills – but maybe – who cares? Click here for some additional free information about learning to play music.

Bottom line – if you wish to be a major instrumentist of any style, get started sooner rather than later.  But, it is never too late to learn to play an instrument and make music. And, most importantly – it’s fun. Don’t forget the singing…

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