As of this writing, our next student recital is just a few weeks away. Participating in a recital seems like a given for any music student, but have you ever wondered why that should be so? Recitals and other performance opportunities are tremendously valuable experiences, especially for kids.

SKILL-IMPROVEMENT
When students choose what piece they’ll play at the next recital, they don’t just pick the next piece in their method book. With the help of their teacher, students pick something that is currently beyond their level of ability. While kids usually spend a week or two with a given piece of music, learning and mastering its concepts, the recital piece is a big project that can span many weeks (or even months). Whether it’s a little kid attempting “Jingle Bells” or a teenager playing a Beethoven sonata, an ideal recital piece will require the student to master difficult skills and techniques in order to break through to a whole new level of musicianship.

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITY
It’s fun to study music theory, form, technique, history, and so on, but let’s face it—music is a performance art. Recitals provide the student with that much-needed element of music study.

STRESS-MANAGEMENT
Performing in front of an audience is a part of life. We all have to make presentations in school or work, or give a speech at some event. Many people find these situations uncomfortable or even debilitating. If only there were a way that kids could get practice being in front of a casual audience and learning to handle that sort of stress while they’re still young. Oh wait, there is a way—recitals!

AND MORE!
Here are a few more reasons why we love recitals:

They’re family-oriented events.

Students get inspiration from hearing other students play.

They’re fun (believe it or not)!

Grandparents go wild seeing their grandkids perform.

At LionWhale recitals, all performers get some sort of treat from Jen.

(And our recitals are completely free for anyone who wants to attend.)