If he claps or marches with the songs of his favorite television show, if he likes to listen to music and sing and dance, if he shows an interest in musical instruments, or if he requests that certain music be played at home, your child is exhibiting an interest in music. It's never too early to begin exposing a child to music. Even preschoolers enjoy group music activities. They learn through simple songs, dancing, playing small percussion instruments and musical games. Your community may offer preschool music programs through the city recreation department, public schools, churches, music stores and independent music teachers.
Teachers differ in their opinions of when a child is ready to start private lessons.
Learn what the opinion on this subject is from any music teacher you are considering. Basically, a child must be able to count, know right from left, be able to sit still, follow directions and pay attention for at least thirty minutes. Whatever age your child begins lessons, playing an instrument will teach your child more than can ever be learned from reading about or listening to music. If you feel your child is ready for instrumental lessons at three or four, the Suzuki method teaches very young children how to play an instrument, usually a small violin. In the Suzuki method, children imitate the teacher and parents reinforce this through practice and instruction at home.