Keys & Strings Music Studio

G at his First PIano Lesson When I first started teaching, there was only one other music study business in the same town.  While the one I was managing (and teaching group classes) was classical in style, the other was more rock based.  This was in the late 80's.  Ironically the other business was started  by another educator from our studio.   In our area, the only other child geared activities were Little League Baseball.   We were able to offer $5 playdate classes for our students on school closure days.  We had a huge Halloween Costume Party, Holiday Party and Solo Recitals.  Studio picnic and Masterclasses.   As the years passed, I noticed that more children activities were starting to be offered.  Martial Arts, Soccer, Gymnastics, Art.  Travel Teams.  More tutoring franchises.  Dance, which was ballet and tap now had many more options. Lots of things to pull children and parents in many directions.  I eventually opened my own studio when my Mentor retired.   For a few years,

 First off, we get it.  School is out.....vacations are planned.  Camps make them tired.  They need down time.  WE UNDERSTAND ALL OF THAT.........but here is why it's not a great idea.  When children ignore their studies in any subject........it takes several days to several weeks to get back into the groove.  They may need a tutor, or extra help after school and at home.   Music is different.  It's just not focus.  It's losing comprehension of the music.  It's losing the fine motor skills that it takes to play  their chosen instrument.  Stamina.  It's almost like starting over.  Which can be frustrating for all involved.   I have seen many different scenarios.   Practice continued, but it was sporadic and rushed.  No lessons with their teacher.   Bad habits were created.  Songs learned incorrectly.  It can take weeks to unlearn and relearn bad habits.  On the other end, no practice at all.  Instrument collected dust.  Returned to lessons, but lost most of their ski