Projects With Music Instruments

Have fun with your instrument even when you're not playing it.

Musical instruments can teach a lot. Aside from the playing, young musicians can learn to care for their instruments, learn to be creative and learn to work as a team. By finding other things to do with their instruments children will be more comfortable playing them, transporting them and take greater pride in their instruments.

Cleaning the Instrument

All musical instruments require a lot of care, and cleaning your instrument is one of the most important maintenance tasks that should be done on a regular basis. As kids learn to play their instruments they should also learn to clean and care for them, whether they are polishing the finish, wiping off grime or spit or simply wiping sweat or finger marks off the instrument after use.

Writing Music

Another fun thing for kids to learn is to write music. Now, don't expect a symphony, but a few notes or a line of music is a great way to help kids be creative. If they are able they should write their music on a piece of paper which is a great tool for teaching them how to read and understand music. If they are more advanced they can write a longer piece and try to create a theme or something that recurs over a few lines. This will help them understand how music is structured and make learning new pieces of music easier.

Playing In a Band or Ensemble

Playing in a band or ensemble teaches your child timing, musicality and the social skills needed to interact with other people in a group setting. If your child plays a classical instrument like a saxophone, trumpet, clarinet or trombone then the school marching band may be the best option. If you have a less traditional instrument, or would prefer something different, then a jazz ensemble or rock band may be a better option.

Basic Maintenance Tasks

Performing basic maintenance tasks is a great way for your child to learn a little about the instrument, how it works and how it creates sound. It also helps keep the instrument sounding great so they can get the maximum use from it. This should go beyond the basic cleaning we talked about earlier and include things like changing the strings and reeds, checking for wear and replacing basic parts. Caring for the instrument is a very important part of every musicians life.

References

• 5 Ways To Make Children More Interested iIn Music: The Good Musician
• Music K-8; Instrument Maintenance And Care; Louise Eddington; March 2005
• Care and Maintenance Of Stringed Instruments: Musicians Friend
• Robinson Music: Instruments For Kids