Playing an instrument is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling activities. 

An instrument can open up a world of creativity and exploration. For this reason, it is important to provide performance opportunities for new musicians, especially those who are still learning the instrument.

Photo credit: Brons Studio Recital at Montclair State University

One of the most important aspects of learning a new instrument is feeling motivated and inspired. 

This feeling of passion is often the difference between successfully mastering an instrument and giving up on it. Performance opportunities give students an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a meaningful way. When a student gets to perform in public, it gives them a sense of accomplishment and recognition. This in turn encourages them to continue their musicianship journey.

In addition to helping with motivation, performance opportunities can further refine the musician's skills. 

Engaging with a crowd of music-lovers can be a humbling and educational experience. Through such performances, musicians can learn how to better engage with their audiences and create a lasting bond with them. As a result, new musicians can gain valuable insights into what makes successful musicianship.

Performance opportunities can also lead to greater recognition for the student. When students gain recognition, they can be more confident in their abilities. This increased confidence can be a key factor in sticking with a new instrument. Moreover, being recognized can help the student attract more attention and gain more gigs, thus furthering their career.

Performance opportunities open up a world of networking possibilities. 

New musicians can meet a variety of other musicians and gain knowledge about the industry. In this way, they can build strong relationships with colleagues, learn tips and tricks from experienced pros, and even receive help in things like finding sheet music and other resources.

Providing performance opportunities, especially for new musicians, is vitally important. 

Doing so helps to keep them motivated and inspired. It also enables them to build confidence in their skills, improve their abilities, and increase their recognition. Finally, performance opportunities can open up a world of networking possibilities, resulting in further opportunities. All these benefits should be taken into serious consideration when looking for ways to encourage and assist new musicians of all ages.