Opinions are divided as to whether listening to music while you work is beneficial or distracting. Some people prefer working in silence, while others swear that listening to their favourite tunes helps them to be more productive. Something known as the ‘Mozart Effect’ has spawned extensive research, and findings indicate that listening to the music [...]

How many beautiful, sunny afternoons found me miserably imprisoned in my bedroom, mournfully sawing away at that dratted violin while my friends’ shrieking laughter testified to the fun they were having outdoors? I chafed at the unfairness of it all. Never mind that I was the one who had opted to ‘learn an instrument’ when the school music director came around our classroom soliciting fresh bodies for the band and orchestra. What had I been I thinking? And why the violin? Of all possible choices, what prideful foolishness made me think I could master this diabolical device, this mocking contraption of wood, catgut, and human misery? With each labored stroke of the bow it howled my musical incompetence to the world. My parents wore their game faces but I knew that deep inside they yearned anew each day for that dreaded hour to pass with a fervor no less impassioned than my own. They hid it well, but I knew and suffered even more exquisitely for the shame I felt at my own lack of the least aptitude. My frustration at times reduced me to a gibbering beast and like a beast I would gnash my teeth in impotent rage. In moments of absolute frenzy I would bite my nemesis, leaving toothy imprints for my tutor to puzzle over at our next lesson. He was wise enough never to inquire as to their origin.

Every time I walk into a school classroom and see a wall filled with collaged flowers or painted cats which all look exactly the same, I cringe. Every time I see a teacher make a “sample” for the little ones to follow and their busy little hands get to work trying to copy it exactly, [...]

Being able to play an instrument is one of those skills that many of us would love to have. We are envious of people who can sit down at the piano and play a simple tune, or who can strum a guitar along to their favorite songs on the radio. Many people learn their music skills as a child, but it is never too late to learn and across the country there are people of all ages learning guitar, piano and many other instruments. But how do you go about finding a good teacher? Recommendation For parents looking for a teacher for their children, the best place to start is with other children who are learning too. Ask the parents if they would recommend the teacher who is working with their children, and if not, why not. It is also easier to talk to other parents about the teaching styles and prices of individual teachers than it is with the teachers themselves. Be aware though that good teachers with a high reputation are often full to capacity, and your child may have to wait several months or longer before a slot becomes available.