A Different Starting Point
When a student arrives wanting to learn piano, guitar, or ukulele, the usual advice—buy a method book, start with scales—rarely fits everyone. Nels Jenstad, who has taught music for over 30 years, says the first step should be curiosity, not curriculum.
"Music as a topic, is big like the ocean, and usually, a student comes to me because something caught their attention," he said. "Standard beginner advice rarely fits everyone. Such as 'buy these method books' and we'll get started on your scales and reading skills. What happened to the thing that inspired them to get up the courage to inquire in the first place?"
Instead, Jenstad asks questions to get students thinking: "What is it that you would like to do in music?" or "Were you inspired by something you heard?" If a student draws a blank, he reassures them it's okay not to have an answer right away. He might follow up with, "Who's your favorite classical composer or music artist these days?" and "What was it that struck you about them?"
From there, he connects the student's inspiration to how that artist learned—in steps and small chunks. "Every musician starts at zero, trying to figure out how to let a musical intention take them from point A to point B," he said. He reminds students that music is a process, not a final destination. Rather than learning scales in isolation, he introduces notes through a real piece of music. "Purpose makes all the difference."
What Adult Beginners Need That Online Advice Misses
Jenstad sees a common assumption among older students: "Okay, I have a music teacher, so I'm just going to practice whatever they tell me, even if it's incredibly hard." In his experience, that mindset rarely leads to success.
The idea of "music lessons" carries preconceived notions, but these can be dispelled by a path filled with small breakthroughs and a genuine sense of "getting it." Much online advice assumes the student already knows the basics, leaving adult learners feeling lost because the pace is either too fast or too slow.
The key, Jenstad says, is finding a teacher you can collaborate with—someone who understands what you need, includes your personal goals, and ensures concepts are truly soaking in. "Just being assigned dry, boring scale exercises isn't music," he said. However, if your fingers or voice cannot physically execute a passage of a song you love, then you have a strong reason to build that specific skill.
Choosing an Instrument and Teacher: What People Rush
When picking a teacher, Jenstad advises interviewing them. Most instructors are happy to discuss their methods and philosophy, and if they offer a free intro lesson, use that time to discuss how you will proceed together.
He recalls a music school owner he worked for who said, "All my teachers here brag on their CVs about the gigs they've performed and where they've studied. That's great, but can you teach?" A great teacher provides the right conditions for learning, offers technical solutions, and anchors you back to your "why" when challenges get tough. "Achieving musical accomplishments builds a deep self-esteem that changes a person," Jenstad said. "Keeping things interesting while reaching outside of your comfort zone is always worthy of praise."
He cautions that some teachers may be eager for students and claim they can teach anything without disclosing their actual approach. Don't be afraid to ask questions. If a teacher was highly recommended, a rigorous interview might not be necessary, but you are under no obligation to stay if it doesn't feel right. "When you find a teacher you truly click with, stick with it and give yourself a chance to grow," he said. He often tells students: "The harder you work, the more fun it is."
As for picking an instrument, people often choose based on joining a school band, becoming enamored with guitars at a music store, or wanting to run a production studio. For kids entering a school band, parents should know that directors deeply appreciate students who play bass-clef instruments like the cello, baritone, tuba, or double bass. "It is understandable to pick a small instrument that fits easily into a backpack, but carrying a heavy instrument shows real dedication—and those low-note instruments are always in incredibly high demand for lifetime careers!" he said. That said, if you love the flute, clarinet, or trumpet, play what speaks to you.
When it comes to rock instruments, Jenstad often sees parents buy a steel-string acoustic guitar for a young beginner, which is generally too painful and difficult for young hands. He suggests starting with a decent-quality classical guitar or a good entry-level electric guitar; a knowledgeable person at a local music store can guide this decision. "Doesn't have to be 'expensive' but must be a good playable and tune-able instrument."
Finally, the piano provides the best visual and auditory connection to how music works. For young beginners, an electronic keyboard with a headphone jack is a great option. "Just don't go too cheap—it doesn't need to be expensive, but it must have a basic good quality. A brand name you have heard of," he said. Most importantly, make sure it is something they can regularly practice on at home. Parents, one of the best things for your young student is to hear some positive praise for their good work. Adult students, you can tell you're making progress. "Take the challenge and make up a song!"
For more information, visit Nels Jenstad Music.