Whether it is to learn it or listen to it, music can truly lift our spirits. But learning music requires a little bit of effort than just listening to your favourite artists. So how do you start? And where do you start? Here are some tips that will help you as a starting musician.
Choose Your Instrument
The first step is of course, to choose your instrument. If you already have a preference for a particular instrument because you truly like it, then you can start with that. But if not, you will need to do your research. Don’t just choose any instrument that you see. Nor should you choose the instrument that everyone else has or is trendy.
Take your time to find out more about instruments, whether it is something as common as a drum set or something that is more unique like the udu drum found among African musical instruments. Some instruments require certain skills or strengths like a strong posture or a strong back. So, make sure to learn all the options available for you before you start shopping.
Start Small
If you don’t have the budget to get an instrument of your own, you can rent an instrument or burrow it from a friend for the first few days of practice. If not, you can start with a less expensive brand. It is perfectly fine to work with a second-hand instrument or a lesser-known brand when you are starting. Once you are more used to the instrument, you can move onto your own new one.
Practice
Regular practice is necessary to keep up your skills. Sometimes you will not get everything right and sometimes you will be tired. But the trick is to never give up. Remember learning music is no different than learning any other skill. Even the most talented musician started from the place you are now. So don’t underestimate yourself.
Self-learning is a good way to start a new instrument but the best way to get lessons is to go to a good teacher. If you are trying to decide on an instrument, you can try one or two self-teaching lessons to see how it goes. But for better practice, find a good instructor. However, while you are taking official lessons you can still practice by yourself at home to improve your skills.
Don’t Overdo It
Music is relaxing but exerting yourself too much can take a toll on you both physically and mentally. This is why practice can be regular but not 24/7. Over-practice can lead to exhaustion, dissatisfaction and negative thoughts about your instrument. Make sure to give yourself breaks. In addition to this, have goals that are achievable and realistic. Never compare yourself with others. You are doing this for yourself, so go at your own pace.
Play with Friends and Family
Learning music does not have to be so formal all the time. So apart from your lessons with your instructor and your self-practicing sessions, you can actually try playing it for others when the opportunity rises. For example, family gatherings, meetings with friends are some of the occasions you can test your skills without the worry of being judged. Take these chances to play to an audience. This will teach you not only to play but also to perform.
Once you have a little bit of practice, you can even start reading up a bit on music theory and try out new things such as playing your favourite songs.