Giving up a musical instrument

[petitdonkey]

DS is in his third year of learning the cello - he wanted to do it initially but it has always been some what of a battle to get him to practice and, with all his other activities, nightly practice is never going to happen.

I have just sat with him while he tries a new piece and it ended in tears, he says he is finding it really hard. He would like to try guitar.

At the moment I am saying that we don't give up on things as soon as they become hard/ guitar will be hard too etc. but how far do I run with this?? He's never going to be YoYo Ma so do I just cut him loose now and let him settle on the sofa with Minecraft and telly???

It's so hard finding the balance, I want him to try things and stick at them but I am no Tiger Mother!

Any shared experiences would be gratefully heard.

[Slapntickleothewenches]

I've no idea oldbean, all I know is its brown and shiny and DS polishes it fondly to "remove the marks"
At nearly 10 I do believe it is the only thing he has ever polished in his life :o

[OldBeanbagz]

DD has been playing guitar for 4½ years and has NEVER polished hers!

I suspect our cleaner might do it in passing

[BirdintheWings]

DS polishes his as well! (Guitar, that is. Ahem.)

DD has put arty vine trail stickers on hers.

What is it about kids and guitars that makes them their new best friend, whereas everything else is a case of have-you-done-your-practice-yet?

[Slapntickleothewenches]

Ha bird
I have even been requested to turn the stand slightly after I have hoovered "so it doesn't get knocked"
Things have never been the same since he saw Slash playing "Jessica" on Top Gear, I think he harbours secret visions :o

[petitdonkey]

Bird - can I take that as a guarantee that he will practice a guitar!! Not sure I can wait until his birthday now (july) - it sounds lovely.