Music in the National Curriculum

Musical instruments

Finding the right instrument for your child is also about finding the right instrument for you. You need to consider where you live and what other family members and even neighbours are willing to put up with - and a drum kit might not be it!

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The Arts Council England's TAKE IT AWAY scheme, funded via the Music Industries Association, matches the musician with the instrument depending on where they live, what type of music they're interested in and, of course, how much they can afford to spend.
 
By teaming up with a couple of major finance companies, the Arts Council helps with the purchase of the instruments so there is no need to worry about the cost.
 
Music clubs are useful for study support or as an after-school activity. Your child's school will have more information on local clubs or you could check with your local authority for information.
 
If your child is talented in music and you want him or her continue studying at a higher level there are schemes and initiatives on offer to help with costs.

Choosing the right instrument

Start by talking to your child's music teacher or a supplier of musical instruments. Ask which instruments may be easier to learn and would suit your child's age and personality. Your child may want to try out different instruments before deciding which is for them. It's important that your child is comfortable with his or her choice - then enthusiasm for practice is less likely to wane.

• Things to keep in mind are the size and weight of the instrument, how easy it is to handle, and your child's age.
• What about lessons - one to one or group? This could determine your choice too.

Which instrument?

Trumpet and Cornet - easy to learn although can be a bit heavy and noisy. Teachers advise waiting until your child's second set of teeth come through before learning. Costs from £160 upwards
 
Cello - a simple instrument played by drawing a horse-hair bow to the strings. Can be expensive to repair and costs around £300
 
Piano - popular, versatile and suitable from around age six. The piano develops good coordination and costs around £1,000 for a basic model - but remember to add around £50 for the cost to tune once a year
 
Clarinet - a popular instrument in bands and orchestras, it comes in Bass, Alto, and E flat. Suitable for ages 10 or 11 - certainly after the second teeth appear as it requires strength to blow and breathing technique. Costs around £150
 
Guitar - start with an acoustic to get the hang of it. You can find left or right-handed guitars and around eight is a good age to start learning. Costs around £60

Drum - an old and versatile instrument that can be made from wood, metal, earthenware or bone, and played with hand, stick, or other device. Even two year olds can learn to play on a toy model. Costs around £200 for a basic three-piece kit

Singing - our first instrument, everyone can sing, and the more you do it the better you get at it. Your child will have started using this instrument already, particularly if you shared nursery rhymes together. Think about joining a choir or vocal group. Local libraries or music shops should have details. 

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