I grew up with a mother who loved musical instruments.
There were always a wide variety of objects around that made different sounds. Instruments that could be used to shake, strum, tap, and blow out rhythms and tunes of mimicry, self-expression, and exploration. Banjos, tambourines, bells, and shakers. Harmonicas, flutes, guitars, and ukuleles. Along with an upright piano that was always central to our home.
Little did my Mom know (or perhaps this was the plan) that access to this home musical instrument collection would inspire a love of music in me.
I learned to play on that piano, and started to understand the rules and creative opportunities that music involved.
My passion for music and the art of creativity and expression via sound has carried me through all the waves of my life. Happy, sad, melancholy, excited, and so much more. All the emotions come with different melodies and favourite songs that I find to match and support the various situations and feelings in my life. I grew a relationship with music over the years that has inspired me to continue learning and enhancing my musical abilities.
First I taught myself to play the guitar. As a teen I had long desired this ability in a partner. Then I realized that I was already the partner I needed and could fulfill my own musical dreams. Why wait around for someone else to play for me?
Later on I became curious about ukuleles, and my not-yet husband surprised me with a beautiful little uke for my birthday. I learned to play this, and enjoyed expanding my mind while also giving myself a more portable and casual way to strum out music. There are some situations where a guitar is just too much to pack around. (For instance, on our vacations. Having my ukulele has been a big bonus to hanging out on patios during down time.)
In any case, I’ll get to the point. Giving your child opportunities to explore sound, music, and self-expression can be of huge benefit to their personal journeys and enjoyment of life. Such a gift it is to inspire a love of music in children!
Curious about what instruments children can play easily and enjoyably? I’ve written up a post of six really cool musical instruments for kids to play that you might be interested to try in your own home. If you purchase any of the items I’ve curated, know that you’re supporting my family in doing so, and we’re probably dancing a little jig to see another order come through.
Music clubs for children is another way to inspire a love of music and offer exposure to rhythms, melodies, and the joy of music. I lead a Virtual Children’s Ukulele Sing-Along Club that is a lot of fun, and I’d love to see your children in one of my classes. You can always send me a message or use the platform to request another time for any of my offerings.
Good luck on your own musical, child-raising, life-enjoyment journey!
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