At this age, children are often curious and full of energy. While formal piano lessons may be too structured, they can benefit greatly from music play classes. Singing, clapping, movement, and exploring simple rhythms lay the foundation for future piano learning.
Signs your child is ready at this stage:
Instead of formal lessons, think of this as “music readiness training.”
For many children, ages 5 to 7 are the sweet spot to start piano. At this stage, they’re usually able to:
Starting during this window helps kids pick up piano quickly while keeping learning fun and exciting.
It’s never “too late” to start piano. In fact, older beginners often progress quickly because they:
Teenagers and adults can also benefit — learning piano builds creativity, relieves stress, and boosts confidence at any age.
Instead of focusing only on age, look for these readiness signs:
If your child ticks most of these boxes, they’re likely ready to begin piano lessons.
While 5–7 years old is often the best time to start piano, every child is unique. Some thrive earlier with playful music exposure, while others do just fine starting later. The most important factor isn’t the age — it’s creating a positive, enjoyable first experience with music.
If you’re still unsure, the best step is to book a trial lesson. You’ll quickly see if your child is ready, and it’s a fun way to spark their musical journey.
If you’re a parent looking to start your child in music lessons, one of the first questions is: what instrument should they learn? With so many choices—piano, guitar, violin, drums, flute, and more—it can feel overwhelming. The right instrument can spark a lifelong love of music, so it’s worth taking the time to find a good fit. Here are some tips to guide you:
Every instrument has its own “voice,” and kids often connect with the one that matches their personality.
Some instruments are easier for small hands than others. For example, violins and guitars come in child-friendly sizes, while a full drum kit might be best for older kids. The piano, on the other hand, is great at any age because it helps with musical foundations.
If possible, give your child the chance to explore a few different instruments before settling on one. A short trial lesson or a “taster class” can make all the difference in sparking excitement.
Sometimes the “right” instrument is simply the one that’s easiest to get started on. If you already have a piano or guitar at home, that familiarity can help your child ease into learning.
Ask your child what excites them:
Their goals can guide the choice of instrument.
Many musicians start with one instrument and later discover another they love even more. The important thing is getting started—because every instrument builds valuable musical skills.
Final Tip: Trust your child’s curiosity. When they’re excited about their instrument, practice feels less like a chore and more like play. That’s when music becomes something they’ll carry with them for life.
At Cook Hill School of Music, we help children discover the instrument that inspires them most. With friendly, experienced teachers and flexible trial lessons, your child can explore piano, guitar, drums, singing, and more before committing.
Contact us today, and let’s find the perfect instrument for your child!
Music is often thought of as something you start when you’re young—but the truth is, lessons bring value at every stage of life. Whether you’re a parent considering lessons for your child, an adult looking for a new challenge, or a retiree seeking a rewarding pastime, music lessons offer unique benefits that go far beyond learning notes on a page.
Children who take music lessons gain more than just the ability to play an instrument:
It’s never too late to learn an instrument or return to music after a break. Adults often discover:
Music lessons can be especially powerful for older learners, offering both mental and emotional rewards:
No matter your age, music lessons open the door to creativity, growth, and joy. Children build skills they carry into adulthood, adults find a rewarding outlet from life’s demands, and older learners enjoy the mental, social, and emotional benefits that keep life vibrant.
It’s never too early—or too late—to start your musical journey.
Parents often ask whether learning an instrument can help their child’s school performance — and the answer from research is a strong - yes!
Students who take part in music lessons, especially over several years, don’t just become better musicians — they also tend to do better academically, including in major exams like the HSC.
Multiple large-scale studies have found correlations between music education and higher academic performance — particularly in literacy, mathematics, and overall school achievement.
A 2019 University of British Columbia study (Guhn, Emerson & Gouzouasis) tracked over 112,000 high school students:
Music training strengthens a range of cognitive and behavioural skills that transfer to academic success:
Brain imaging studies show that music training can literally change brain structures linked to learning and memory (e.g., the corpus callosum and prefrontal cortex).
The benefits are strongest for students who stay involved in music over several years, particularly those who learn an instrument or sing in an ensemble.
Even a few years of lessons can leave lasting effects on how students think, listen, and focus.
Music lessons don’t just teach children how to play an instrument — they teach them how to learn.
By developing concentration, creativity, and confidence, music helps students perform at their best — both on stage and in the classroom.
Our students grow in focus, resilience, and joy — and often surprise themselves with what they can achieve.
If you’re looking to give your child a lifelong advantage, music lessons are one of the most rewarding ways to start.
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