But their zeal was infectious. The final visit was to a class that was learning the very difficult Asian lap harp. Each student was required to have a mother or grandmother present to point to each note and turn the music pages. These families are willing to pay a small fee and in some cases buy instruments. Some youngsters were the third generation using the same violin or flute to save money.
Parents are responsible for the student's home practice and regular attendance.
Students are rewarded by being taken to cultural events. When you see what lengths these children go to in order to visit the Children s Palace after a long school day, to practice at home, and not to waste a parent's time and money, it does seem as if culture has a high place in their society. Most plays and concerts are expensive, but there are theaters where students are welcome to stand for hours to enjoy the event at a small price. I don't feel the arts have this reverence in the United States. Many kids think they are doing parents a favor by taking lessons.