If you don't know anything about music (or even if you do), here's another way you can play a supportive role in your child's keyboard lessons.

As part of the assignment, the student almost always has at least one piece that is almost ready to perform. Many teachers prefer you to NOT monitor the entire practice session, but it's fun to listen to performance pieces, perhaps at the end of practice time.

Before you hear the piece:

Show your interest and support! Here are good questions to ask your performer:

• What is the name of the piece?
• Is there anything special you should listen for?
• Will it have a loud or a soft sound? Smooth or bumpy?
• What is the piece about?

Or, for more intermediate level students:

• Does the piece have more than one section?
• How will it sound the same or different from the first section?
• Who is the composer?

After the piece is over:

It's really important to immediately say something positive, no matter what. Really! Even if it was awful, there's always a plus to point out. If you have to, formulate a statement while you're listening, something like:

• "Wow, you've made wonderful progress with this!"
• "Those short notes really sounded like tiptoe-ing!"
• "You recovered quite well from that mistake you made, good for you!"

Whatever it is, find something to praise, and let this be the VERY first thing you say when the piece is over.