We spoke to Nomadic Orchestra’s tuba player, Joe Bolton, to find out where to start.
Where can I find an instrument that won’t break the bank?
Brass instruments like the tuba are very expensive, so consider renting one for a while before investing in an instrument you aren’t 100% sure your child will enjoy.
Joe suggests that you encourage your child to start on a cheaper brass instrument such as a bugle, trumpet, trombone or euphonium. ‘These are more affordable, so start with one of these and see whether your child has the talent and feel for a brass instrument. All brass instruments need similar embouchure (the way the mouth meets the mouthpiece).’
Where can I find a music teacher who teaches an alternative instrument?
Most music schools will have facilitators in alternative instruments, but because alternative instruments are rarer in South Africa, some research is necessary. The best would be to look for a music school in your community. If they don’t have a tutor in the specific instrument your child is interested in, they are sure to know of someone who gives private lessons, or they will be able to point you in the right direction to find a tutor. Alternatively, inquire at a local university that has a music department or conservatory for lessons in specific instruments.
Why should parents motivate their children to play musical instruments?
Joe says playing music teaches children (and adults) many good lessons:
- How to live in the moment ‘When playing music, we must constantly be the best we can be in that moment and for every single note we play. Never dwell on the mistakes you make, but rather focus on playing the next note perfectly.’
- How to practise ‘The art of practice teaches focus and slow progress. We must learn from mistakes while being brutally honest about the quality of our performance.’
- How to take care of our possessions ‘Musical instruments are extremely fragile and require daily maintenance. If you bump or knock it even slightly, it might not play.’
Don’t discourage an interest
If your child is interested in playing the tuba or another instrument you should embrace the fact that they are drawn to something interesting. Never force an interest on your child. Rather broaden their horizons to choose something they like and something they will be dedicated to. ‘The only way your child will gain anything from playing an instrument is if they are truly interested,’ says Joe.
How important is music theory?
Joe sums this up perfectly: ‘We can all draw and we can all play, but to be an artist you must understand composition, colour and context. Theory is a tool you can use to help further your understanding and make a true statement in creativity, but at the end of the day, to quote composer, pianist and band leader Duke Ellington, “If it sounds good, it is good.”’
Join Good Housekeeping and Nomadic Orchestra at the Backsberg Sunday Picnic Concerts this weekend
Nomadic Orchestra is a five-piece band whose sole purpose is to get the audience to dance. Their energy is infectious and their music will make a lasting impression, with influences that vary from jive to jazz, hip-hop to House, experimental to electronic. They are inspired by a world of sound and are a must-see for any music-lover.
See them performing live at the Backsberg Sunday Picnic Concerts at Backsberg Estate Cellars on Sunday 26 February 2017 at 3pm. Good Housekeeping is the media partner of these fun-filled family outings, so be sure to come and enjoy a relaxing afternoon of music, good food and wine, and more.
Get your tickets here
Featured image: iStock/Highwaystarz-Photography
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