Anyone can learn piano composition.
Perhaps the idea of composing a song might seem really intimidating or mind-boggling to you. Would it surprise you to know that I’ve had students as young as 4-years-old compose their own original (and delightful!) pieces?
If the idea of composing a piano piece seems impossible, think of the pride that comes whenever you create something unique. Maybe you had this feeling when you painted your kitchen cabinets or wrote an article that was published. Perhaps you were super proud of the beautiful birthday party you hosted or the delicious dinner you made.
Think now of the excitement and pride in your child when he creates something. Doesn’t he love to show off his latest block tower or art project?
It truly is exciting for my students of any age learn piano composition. They are creating their VERY OWN piece of music. They thought of it and wrote it and titled all on their own.
Many method books include composition exercises that can help students begin to learn specific techniques and serve as a jumping-off point. I include elements of composition in my online program, Busy Kids Do Piano.
But why do this? Why bother to learn piano composition? Is it just for fun? Is it to try to find this generation’s Beethoven?
I believe learning composition is part of creating a well-rounded piano student.
When students learn piano composition – either in my studio or my online piano lesson course on composing – I observe so many benefits.
As they learn composition techniques, they become aware of form and structure in music in a meaningful way.
As your child begins to understand how a piece is structured and laid out, music will become more accessible to him.
A student’s aural skills will become strengthened and focused.
Your child will begin to experiment and listen for melodies and chords that sound pleasing to the ear.
MANY SKILLS ARE REQUIRED TO CREATE A PIECE OF MUSIC
Your child must combine his aural, visual and theoretical skills and knowledge in order to compose music.
APPRECIATION IS CREATED
A lot of work goes into composing a piece! When your child is the one doing that work, he develops a deeper recognition of the talent and skill of musical composers who have created outstanding works of art.
IT’S SOMETHING NEW
If your student needs a change of pace from the typical piano lesson structure, then learning piano composition might be a breath of fresh air.
MUSICALITY
Indulging your child’s creativity can help him to let go of inhibitions and play more musically.
INDEPENDENCE
Learning to think through ideas and concepts helps your child become more independent.
CONFIDENCE
Your student will build confidence as he sees that it is possible to create his own musical masterpiece. Throughout the process, he’ll learn to make decisions about his work – and trust those decisions.
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