Music Lessons: 5 Myths Busted

A young girl in a yellow dress, one of the New TEMPO Ambassadors, plays the violin with focus, standing near a microphone. The background is softly blurred.

Are you thinking about music lessons for your child, but wondering if they’re ready, musical enough or likely to stick with it?

Let’s bust five common myths about learning an instrument – and look at what really matters when getting started.

Myth 1: “My child is too young to start” 

There’s no need to wait! 

Early musical experiences can help children build confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of music. 

At MMF’s Wimbledon College Saturday School, Step Into Music introduces children to music through fun, playful sessions from just 2 years old.  

Young girl in a pink unicorn jumper, one of the new TEMPO Ambassadors, plays a yellow tambourine. She has star-shaped hair clips and looks to the side, surrounded by other children in a lively, indoor setting.

Myth 2: "They need to be naturally musical" 

Musicality isn't something you either have or you don't, it can be developed.

With the right encouragement and opportunities, every child can discover their own way of making music. 

From whole-class music-making and group sessions to individual instrumental lessons, there are lots of ways to get started with us. 

MMF provides music education in schools across Merton, as well as lessons and workshops at our four Music Centres. 

A close-up of a person playing an electric guitar, focusing on their hands pressing the strings on the fretboard and strumming near the pickups—capturing the passion and skill of the New TEMPO Ambassadors in action.

Myth 3: "We'll need to spend lots of money on an instrument" 

Not necessarily! 

We want every child to have the chance to discover their love of music without cost being a barrier. 

MMF offers instrument hire and financial assistance for eligible families through our TEMPO Fund, helping more children get started. 

A young boy, one of the new TEMPO Ambassadors, sits and plays an acoustic guitar, looking focused. He wears a light-coloured polo shirt, and musical equipment is blurred in the background.

Myth 4: "They'll have to practise every day" 

Regular practice helps, but it shouldn't feel like a chore.

As children make progress, they often become more motivated to practise because they're enjoying playing and discovering what they can achieve. 

A little regular practice can go a long way. 

A young boy in a pink collared shirt smiles whilst playing an electronic keyboard, looking slightly to the side—one of the promising new TEMPO Ambassadors sharing his love for music.

Myth 5: "If they're not doing exams, there's no point"

Exams aren't for everyone – and they don't have to be the goal. 

Learning an instrument can be about so much more than grades: enjoying music, building confidence, being creative, performing and playing with others.

For some children, exams are a great way to set goals and celebrate progress. For others, they simply aren't the right fit. 

Both are perfectly valid ways to learn.  

A young boy wearing glasses and a red shirt plays a brass trombone, focusing intently on the instrument, embodying the dedication of the New TEMPO Ambassadors.

So, what really matters? 

Curiosity, encouragement and the chance to have a go. 

You don't need to have it all figured out – just give them a place to start. From there, they can explore, discover and find what's right for them.