Perhaps the best way to gain an appreciation of different types of music or of various composers is to listen to the music on a regular basis. If you are an adult and are interested in classical music appreciation, for example, consider purchasing a classical collection to give an idea of what the genre and its various artists sound like. For children, there are a variety of classical music collections that aim at introducing classical music and encouraging music appreciation at a young age.
Musical theater is an accessible and fun way to gain music appreciation. Attending a Broadway show or watching movie musicals will introduce the viewer to new, often very popular music, along with actors, actresses and directors. Participating in a musical theater production is another way to gain an appreciation of the songs and lyrics behind these various shows.
Music provokes movement, and dance is an excellent way for those with more active personalities to gain an appreciation of music. Parents should encourage children to dance and move to music from a young age. Ballet classes introduce students to a variety of famous classical pieces and encourage a true immersion into the music. Attending a ballet or dance production at the theater is another way to experience various types of music and the dances that accompanies them.
For those who love to collect items, music is an ideal hobby. Once the music student has a feel for various genres of music, he may consider collecting pieces by a favorite composer or time period. Those who enjoy antique collecting can combine this hobby with a music hobby by collecting old albums or sheet music. Children in families might enjoy it if their parents initiate their own private family collection, which can be admired and expanded throughout the years.
Concert attendance is sure to inspire music appreciation. Watching the intricate details and intense concentration of a full orchestra or feeling the high energy at a rock concert is perhaps one of the best ways to truly understand the work and creativity involved in musical creation. Many local communities offer free concert events on weekends, some of which are appropriate for families with young children.
Young children will enjoy making simple percussion instruments or using household items to make different sounds. Enchanted Learning.com has a few examples of preschool craft activities that will encourage music appreciation, including a box guitar and rainstick.
Learning a musical instrument can be very rewarding. Start children from a young age and allow them to choose which instrument they would most enjoy. For adults, many libraries and colleges offer adult education classes for those interested in learning how to play a musical instrument. Online and self-taught classes are ideal for those who already know the basics of music theory.