At Academy Music we have registered Suzuki teachers for violin and cello and have successfully started many students as young as three, although most begin at 4. It is important to check the credentials of teachers using the Suzuki. Ask if they are registered with the Suzuki Association and how many levels of training they have completed. This method and training prepare the teacher to work successfully with the parent and student in a positive manner using a mastery approach. The goals are the same as any good teaching method since we all want to teach good pitch, tempo, rhythm and musicianship.
Most students can begin woodwind and brass instrument instruction at about the age of nine.
Physically they must be able to handle the instrument and reach keys and valves without straining. Again ask the teacher's qualifications and decide for yourself if you think the teacher has a good attitude that will encourage rather than discourage your child. Even though we encourage early beginning, it is never too late to begin. More and more adults are learning to play an instrument for the first time. It is a myth that children learn faster, my adult students who are committed have time to practice and bring lots of experiences to the lessons that children haven't had.