Making Music

Words by Karla Lopez
Photography by Karl Solano



FAQ: When can my child begin guitar/ukulele lessons?

Every child is capable of learning to play an instrument, I can tell you that. The recommended age to start is 6 years because of finger length. But a child as young as 4 years old can begin to learn if they are really motivated and patient.

This is why I always have children touch and play my guitar after class. They see me make familiar music with it, they hear it, they experience the feeling of the music it makes, and then they’re given the chance to produce it themselves.

To foster the desire to make music, your child needs to be around music. The more variety they’re exposed to, the better. Having your child in music class gives them the opportunity to explore different beats with small percussion instruments, meters, tonalities, and patterns. This is why I always have children touch and play my guitar after class. They see me make familiar music with it, they hear it, they experience the feeling of the music it makes, and then they’re given the chance to produce it themselves.

If this is the environment you provide for your child, it’ll be an easy process for them to learn in the future.