Music To My Ears

One of my favorite questions from parents is:  "Is it okay if my child plays around on the piano, just for fun?"  And I always answer with an enthusiastic, "Absolutely!"  Of course I want students to complete their theory homework and work consistently on their finger exercises; but what a TREAT to hear that the students are using their own free time to either make up their own melodies, or are simply exploring their pianos.  In my experience, those who spend time playing on the piano "just for fun" are those whose curiosity actually takes them to higher levels of learning, in their musical journey.