Issue link: http://hvparent.uberflip.com/i/1008362
20 Hudson Valley Parent n August 2018 music lessons. "Instrumental music study provides students of all ages with the opportunity to learn to be patient and persistent, to delay gratification and to work hard in order to sound better both individually and as a contrib- utor to the overall sound of their ensemble," Kieley says. As the band teacher, Kieley only has 30-40 minutes each week in a small group lesson to teach stu- dents technique. The real learning and growth, Kieley explains, only takes place when students choose to put in the work during their home practice time. "Music is one subject where the parent cannot do the homework for their child. Music study engenders self-reliance, a skill that will help them navigate school and life. For this reason, music study has a profound effect on a child's life, both within and beyond the school walls," he says. Vanessa Johnson of Wappingers Falls has seen her son Caleb's determination grow after he started piano lessons at school this past year. "I have seen more perseverance in him and he is confident in his skill. I have personally watched him try and solve problems with the notes when he tries to play by ear," she says. "His teacher told me he showed her what he had figured out on his own and asked her for help with what he couldn't. I believe that's two life lessons right there, the ability to problem solve, but also knowing when to ask for help." By CAREN BENNETT O ur children's schedules are already so jam packed with school and extracurricular activities, you may think it's too much to even think about adding one more thing. Moms, music teachers and even students cite the benefits of music lessons that make this enrichment activity worthwhile. Discipline and determination Darren Hoffmann, an 8th grade student at Van Wyck Junior High School in Wappingers Falls, began playing the oboe when he was in elementary school. He credits his music lessons with teaching him the value of hard work. "Music has helped me have a good work ethic," he says. "You have to work hard to be good at your instrument and working hard helps you in plenty of other aspects in your life." Halfway through seventh grade, Darren decided to learn how to play the bassoon, which was a challenge. "I had to learn all new fingerings which took a long time, but after weeks of practicing I started playing in band," Darren explains. "All you need to do is put in the time each day and you can reach any goal." Steven Kieley is the band teacher at Oak Grove Elementary School in Poughkeepsie, Sheafe Road Elementary School in Wappingers Falls, Kinry Road Elementary School in Poughkeepsie and has taught in the Wappingers Central School District for 33 years. He sees firsthand how his students learn discipline through their Confidence and self-esteem Megan Wentworth is the music teacher at St. Mary's School in Fishkill. She has seen her students' confidence levels soar as result of their exploration of music. "Every child is different and when they are able to learn about music or how to play an instrument, they often find a hidden talent. Music lessons give them a sense of pride in their abilities that they may not have yet discovered," she says. Tracey Amenta has two sons who both got started playing music at a young age, and who both currently play the bass at John Jay High school in Hopewell Junction. One of her sons was a very shy child. "His music gave him confidence," Amenta says. "He had to converse with lots of people, be confident and self- aware." Amenta says that she tells people all the time that music has made her children better people. "They are comfortable in front of crowds and respectful to Life lessons learned through music lessons Enrich your child with an instrument