NPR published a series of articles in 2012 entitled 'The Young Person's Guide to Making Music'.  The following article was the most well-received within that series, and for good reason.  If you've ever struggled with your child's weekly practice sessions, then read on for some good tips and advice on developing regular and enjoyable practice times. 

http://www.npr.org/sections/deceptivecadence/2012/06/18/155282684/getting-kids-to-practice-music-without-tears-or-tantrums

I talk a lot with my students about the idea of practicing perfectly. Don't repeatedly practice mistakes, but, practice your repertoire perfectly and as slow as necessary to play it perfectly.  The following article discusses the notion of 'deliberate' practice and how it affects high performers and achievers.

www.businessinsider.com/anders-ericsson-how-to-become-an-expert-at-anything-2016-6
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This is a great perspective on the make-up lesson.  Many teachers choose to offer make-lessons but this parent/author of this article opposes this practice. Read the article below to find out why!

http://ottawasuzukistrings.ca/makeuplessons/

• The clarinet is small and easy to transport

The clarinet can fit into a backpack and be stored in a school locker.  This is not the case with a cello, harp or tuba!

• The cost of playing the clarinet is significantly less compared with a violin or piano

Beginner clarinets can be rented for a low monthly cost from local music stores. The cost of accessories and music can stay low when sourced well and properly cared for.

• The clarinet is highly diverse in its playing styles and outlets

Classical, jazz, pop, rock, funk, new age – the clarinet does it all!

Orchestra, concert band, marching band, clarinet choirs, chamber music, jazz band and combo, musicals, rock bands – the clarinet is a member in them all!

• Once you play the clarinet, many other instruments are easily learned

You can transfer the skills you’ve learned on the clarinet to saxophone, flute, bassoon and oboe.  You become a more well-round musician and your employability increases.  Want to play in the pit orchestra of Broadway musicals? You’ll need to know how to play all the woodwind instruments!

• Smart people make music

It has been scientifically shown that those who partake in the act of music making, develop critical thinking and problem solving skills, score higher on academic testing, place higher in university qualifying. But, in the words of Lamar Burton, “you don’t have to take my word for it”:

• Think learning an instrument is just for children?

Think Again! Adult learners garner the same increased benefits as their younger counterparts. Read the following articles to learn about how music can help you.

1. https://www.nammfoundation.org/articles/2014-06-01-why-play-music-adults
2. http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2014/01/140103-music-lessons-brain-aging-cognitive-neuroscience/

• Most importantly, playing an instrument is fun and you will have the opportunity to create beautiful music!

The majority of people rarely get an opportunity to experience what it is like to make music either in a solo situation or as part of a group of others. This is an experience not to be missed!