Musicians: encouraging/supporting your kids Re:Playing Musical Instruments

I had piano forced on me when I was probably 9 which led to some time with the trumpet then the guitar which I still play today (I'm 28). I did not appreciate the importance of playing an instrument at that age and kind of resented having to play the piano. The guitar was my idea so naturally I was more inclined to practice it than the piano. Not sure how to go about nurturing a desire for an instrument at an early age, but I probably would not force it. Just facilitate it by playing with them or showing them things you know then maybe wait until they're a little older for an instrument of their own.

Note - I don't have kids so I'm no pro.

I hope my kids have interest in instruments. I had a very mild interest when I was a kid. I always thought it would be cool to play guitar but it looked so hard and I didn't think I could fit it into my schedule with all the sports.

I'm a lot older now and wish I would have put in the time then and be well versed in an instrument now. Now I can play a guitar but not good. Same with the trumpet. I'd love to be great at either and play in a band on the side.

I became very interested in playing the guitar at about age 6. I was already starting to get into rock music and loved AC/DC as a young kid. I would literally walk around the house with a broom as a guitar. Naturally I got a guitar, and 21 years later I still play everyday. Figure out a genre of music they are drawn to, (do they like Zeppelin, Floyd, Skynyrd, Queen, etc... or do they like Miley Cyrus?) and then find the appropriate instrument for that.

SInce he is only 5 just let him play around. Don't force him into lessons or anything because it could drive him away. Giving him his own instrument is a great way to keep him interested without pushing.

If he does want lessons, just make sure you find a good teacher. And don't be afraid to let him try out different teachers. Find someone he likes to learn from.

I loved the Piano when i was a kid, my parents got me a teacher who i hated and they refused to listen to me and refused to let me get a new teacher. As a result I quit the piano and i regret that decision everyday.

I play the hell out of my guitar though. Every now and then I'll pick up my keyboard, but i wish i had stayed with the piano when i was younger.

It also depends on what type of kids they are. Are they really independent? Do they like to figure out things on there own? I was like that and have never taken a lesson. With technology now and youtube honestly, there's almost no reason to take lessons. I give lessons and have for about 7-8 years but I refuse to go more than 5 sessions in a row and only once a month. I believe lessons greatly inhibit creativity.

Thanks to all of you for the thoughtful responses.