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Position:Home>Performing Arts> I like playing my instrument, but I want to try another one by my self? Help!?


Question:Okay, at school I'm in Orchestra - Cello.
I like playing the cello, but I want to have another to try at home (You know, keep it but do not bring it to school?) Like the flute or something. How can I change my parent's minds?


Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Okay, at school I'm in Orchestra - Cello.
I like playing the cello, but I want to have another to try at home (You know, keep it but do not bring it to school?) Like the flute or something. How can I change my parent's minds?

Whatever you do, don't try anything so manipulative as screaming at them until they give in, like one person suggested.

You catch more flies with honey, it is said, than you can with vinegar... which is to say... being nice works far better. Not only that but it shows maturity and love- which you want your parents to see in you- as that helps them feel you can actually DO more.

If this idea of yours costs them money to spring for buying that new instrument-- and if that's an issue... then investigate low cost musical instruments... pianos typically won't do.

Talk to them calmly about your idea, and ask them what they would need or want to see in you (or from you) to make that possible. It's called 'negotiating' (rather than manipulating).

Negotiation shows respect... manipulation shows selfishness.

Listen to what they say... if all they do is list a bunch of negatives-- reasons why your idea can't happen... return them to your original question: "What would it take for me to be able to start learning a second instrument at home, so that I become more a more versatile musician?" Be open to the possibility that they might want you to do work around the house to earn part or even all of the money that would possibly be involved. They may not say that- but be prepared to accept that part of the negotiation- if you really want this.

Be prepared to hear comments like, "You don't even keep up with the practice on your cello like you're supposed to, so why on earth would we think it's a good idea for you to start up with another one?" --if indeed you ever fail to consistently practice the cello. Your answer there would be, "So all you need to see is that I stay consistent over a period of time with my cello practice, to make a 2nd instrument possible? If they say yes, ask them "How long would you want to see me consistently practicing the cello before you're satisfied?"

Remember, if you're expecting them to foot the bill for it-- you have to be willing to accept their terms. If you really want this- negotiate for it!

Stay calm, listen well, keep returning to the first question of what it's going to TAKE to make this happen. No matter what--- no pouting! Your parents will read that as immaturity and will feel very sure they made the right decision in saying no (if that's the way they go). Show them by ongoing maturity and respect that you really can handle what you're talking about.

This represents a person's best hope. If we meet up with unreasonable people, our perfect behavior won't buy us even a harmonica or a triangle. I'm pulling for ya! I'd love to see you be able to excel at playing more than one instrument!

guitar would be good to learn same with piano

go to music places and ask how much lessons would be and then scream at your parents to let you play :D

PERCUSSION RULEZ

i have or had this same problem, i play flute and i wanted to play oboe but my parents wouldn't let me, its best to take initiative yourself call places that give lessons, see how much it is to buy or rent the instrument, if your parents see that you really are making an effort maybe they'll rethink it, make friends with some band kids that play the instrument you want to play ,FLUTE (haha), then ask if they'll teach you, maybe ask the school's band director that's what i did and he said he'd teach me but i didn't want to play oboe anymore (ha!) well hope i helped!

piano realy helps your brain and hand eye coordnation skills