Survey finds ‘shocking’ lack of encouragement for children learning to play a musical instrument

Despite 85% of adults agreeing that children benefit from playing a musical instrument, a staggering 77% believe that there is a shocking lack of encouragement for children to learn to play. Those figures come from a new survey conducted by Yamaha Music London, who spoke to 1,000 adults across the UK.

The flagship music store in London found that 60% of adults say they want to learn an instrument, but the future ‘doesn’t look so rosy’ for children wanting to play. “Only a generation ago, families made their own music gathered round the piano, singing Christmas Carols or performing a party piece,” said Yamaha Music London.
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“Today music is all around. Families have access to music from streaming devices, kids hear music in the car going to school and the music charts are even broadcast live on kids TV.

“But…the findings reveal that despite 85% of those polled agreeing that children benefit from playing a musical instrument, a staggering 77% believe that there is a shocking lack of encouragement for children to learn to play despite the best efforts of the UK Music Industry.”

50% of those polled verified that school was traditionally the place to learn to play a musical instrument. But the firm believes that children need encouragement from parents as well as schools. Yamaha Music London store manager explained: “We are recommending that you throw away apps, games and gizmos and pick up an instrument – it might just be the start of a life-long passion or career.”

The survey found that the optimum age to learn to play is between 6-10 years of age and that the best starter instruments are piano and guitar. Still not sure if you or your child should learn to play? Take a look at these 7 reasons why you should learn a music instrument in 2017.