How to Make the Most of Your Child's Live Music Experience

By Jeffrey Friedberg, MA, MT-BC July 10, 2015

A music therapist and award-winning children's musician offers tips on bringing your child to a concert or other live music performance, including how to choose the best venue, prepare kids for the show, and help them engage with the music.

Match the performance length with your child's age.

Don't overdo it or undercut your child's ability to manage a music performance. Recommended length of performances:

30-50 minutes for toddlers

60-75 minutes for preschoolers

Explore different music venues.

Sharing live music with children doesn't have to be expensive or at a fancy theater. Take the kids to listen to music at:

performing arts centers

community performances at libraries and local parks

performances by students or parents at schools or in the classroom

or in your living room—dust off your high school flute and share some songs!

Prepare kids for the show.

Use the bathroom!

Teach audience manners (clap after a song to show appreciation, try to sit with your hands to yourself, ask an adult in quiet voice if you have a question or need to leave during the performance).