When Should Your Child Start Music Lessons?

Posted On April 22nd, 2025 by Brian Zimmerman

So, you want to get your child started with music—but you're not sure when to begin. Don’t fret. No pun intended :p

As a music teacher, I’ve found that the "perfect age" isn’t as critical as some might think. It really depends on your child’s personality, interests, and focus level. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. I’ve taught students as young as three, and I’ve never once felt a child was “unprepared.”

Some kids struggle to focus at age six, eight or even twelve—and that’s totally normal. Many take a while to find that elusive focus switch. But I never discourage young students from starting. Why? Because music IS exploration. Music IS curiosity. And sometimes, a wandering mind is exactly what they should have. After all, a wandering mind is where creativity truly begins!

Too often, lessons become rigid and joyless. I try to do the opposite. If a student’s attention drifts, I follow it—because that curiosity can lead to real, lasting engagement. Music lessons can actually build focus, little by little. Sometimes we’ll talk about why guitar strings are different sizes, or how many notes “exist in music”. These kinds of conversations spark interest—and interest is the key to real learning.

It’s been shown again and again: the best learning happens when there’s emotional investment. That’s just a fancy way of saying your child should enjoy what they’re doing :)

Yes, earlier exposure to music can be great—but it should never feel forced. If music feels like a chore, kids are less likely to stick with it. The goal isn’t just efficient lessons—it’s building excitement and a love of music that lasts.

There’s no perfect age. Just the right time for your child.