Rondo Capriccioso Op 14

 

Self Esteem

 

Self-esteem. It means pride, self-respect, dignity and confidence. Some people have it and some people don't. Why?  No one knows for sure. But self esteem seems to be a combination of hard work, challenging oneself and looking at the bright side of things.

One of the best ways for a child to reap the rewards of self-esteem is by learning to play the piano. Taking piano lessons at an early age is a tremendous confidence builder. What other form of "exercise" allows a child to challenge himself or herself to the fullest by reading two lines of music, while simultaneously using both ears, arms, legs, feet, and all ten fingers. Once a child puts the energy into playing the piano, he or she starts to notice results, and begins to develop a new found confidence in completing tasks.

There are many ways that a child can develop a healthy sense of self. Encouragement and a positive attitude are of great help. These are traits that a music teacher can truly bring out in a student. Piano teachers know that "constructive criticism" and praise go a long way in helping a child feel good about what he or she has accomplished. Few children will become concert pianists. But virtually every one who takes piano lessons will benefit from increased concentration, coordination, and self-esteem.

Children who learn piano are more likely to have feelings of self worth because they are constantly challenging themselves. Sure, they may fail along the way.  But as long as they're moving forward, trying to improve their abilities, they'll  succeed in many ways that go beyond just learning to play music.

True self-esteem develops when a child not only learns something, but feels that he or she has a mastery over the subject. Even if a child can't play a piece of music to perfection, as long as he feels he's completed a tough assignment, he'll have the confidence to move on and try new things.

A child won't instantly develop self-esteem just by sitting down at a piano. It takes time and hard work. But the benefits that carry over from learning piano - better concentration in school work, improved interaction with peers and a feeling of self worth all help a child to keep his grades and his head up high.

---

Bob Furst's Piano Provider Program

The Piano - The Piano Lesson - The Piano Teacher

 I am Music | Music Facts | Language | Healing | Ode | Self-Esteem
Concentration| Coordination| Confidence| Character| Creativity