Summer is a great time to take a break—a break from school, packed schedules, and the daily grind. Relaxing with family and friends? Absolutely. Making time to hit the beach? You bet. No more pencils, no more books? I’ll allow it. And maybe a break from music lessons, too?
Hold up—not so fast.
Did you know that nearly 50% of students who take the summer off from music lessons never return in the fall? It’s like going back to the gym after three months off—everything feels harder, your rhythm is off, and your muscles protest every movement. Or think about that book you started reading months ago—do you jump back in with ease, or do you have to reread a few chapters to remember what’s going on? Music is no different. Skills slip. Progress fades. Momentum can be hard to rebuild.
That’s why I’m writing this: to encourage you to keep music in your life this summer – with fewer obligations and more flexible days, music can feel even more inspiring and creative.
I’ve seen this firsthand. This year marks seven years of music lessons for my child, and we’ve never had a rough return to regular lessons in September. Why? Because we always keep music going over the summer—even if it looks a little different from the school-year routine.
On that note, summer is also the perfect time to try something new. Are lessons starting to feel a bit stale and your having a hard time finding the drive? Switch things up and spend time with music in a different way One summer, we swapped piano for RealJams Academy Musical Theatre — and discovered a love for performing that’s still going strong. Another year, we dove into Taylor Swift songs, learning them by ear, singing along, and having fun with every note.
Those relaxed summer lessons? They were some of the most joyful and memorable we’ve ever had. Music was the soundtrack to our summer—and it kept the spark alive.
Summer is for sunshine, adventure, and freedom—and music fits right in. So this summer, make room for music. Try something new. Revisit an old favorite. Sing, play, explore, and let it bring color to your days. Your fall self will thank you.
This article was written by Lily Symmonds, The Real School of Music's Director of Innovation & Yamaha Program Director. Lily is also a Real School parent with her student involved in Private Music Lessons, Musical Theatre, and RealJams Academy.