Don’t Let Your Child Quit Music Lessons
By Henry Bahrou
Children often begin music lessons with big dreams of becoming skilled musicians or talented singers. The first few lessons are typically filled with excitement as they start learning the basics of their instrument or voice. In the beginning, it’s important to structure lessons so that students can take manageable steps toward mastering something that, in reality, is quite complex.
However, it’s inevitable that at some point a student will encounter a challenge that feels overwhelming—something that requires extra practice and perseverance. When this happens, it’s crucial that parents, teachers, and other supporters step in to encourage persistence and maintain structure around practice routines. Progress depends on it.
For example, many guitar students feel defeated when they encounter their first barre chord, like the F chord. These thresholds—moments where growth feels nearly impossible—are critical. They separate the students who continue to grow from those who give up too soon.
At times, students might resist practice out of frustration, a lack of discipline, or simply because it’s easier not to push through. As a music educator, I can’t count how many times I’ve heard adults say, “I wish my parents hadn’t let me quit music lessons.” If I had a nickel for each time, I wouldn’t be writing this article—I’d be playing guitar on a beach somewhere, counting millions of dollars in nickels. (Though truthfully, I’d probably exchange them at the bank first!)
Of course, not everyone is destined to become a professional musician—and that’s perfectly okay. But quitting just because something gets difficult robs young learners of the many lifelong benefits that music education can offer: confidence, creativity, discipline, and joy.
If your child is struggling to practice, sit with them, review what they learned in their lesson, and help establish a consistent practice schedule. Sometimes, parents attending a few lessons alongside their child can make a huge difference in helping them stay organized and motivated.
Also, keep in mind that some students become discouraged practicing alone. Many are inspired by playing with others, like their favorite bands do. Programs such as our Rock Band and Ensemble Classes at Grosse Pointe Music Academy have been incredibly effective in boosting student confidence and inspiring them to keep learning and improving.
Don’t let your child someday say, “I wish I hadn’t quit.”
Support them now. Help them see that overcoming challenges leads to great rewards.
Don’t let them quit music lessons.
Plymouth Canton Area Music School
Grosse Pointe Music Academy in Canton
5880 N. Canton Center Rd. Ste. 425
Canton, MI
48187
Thank you for your article. It is very timely in that my daughter wanted to quit taking violin lessons. She is just really starting to move into the next level of her ability. She is a freshman in high school and starting to get more complex pieces to play. While she is no child prodigy, she is quite good. The kicker is she really enjoys playing, but as you mentioned hates practicing. I told her she couldn’t quit. I want her to enjoy playing and, as you said, not regret quitting. Thanks again.
I believe that you’re making the right choice. Music is a gift that will keep on giving literally for a lifetime. Not only that but it sends a message of that you can’t quit things if you want to have things.