Parents taught her

I contribute much of my love of music to the tactics of my parents in exposing me and my siblings to all kinds of good music. Not only did we take music lessons and have a variety of music available on records and cassettes at home, but my parents also made a point of taking us to the symphony, musical theater, opera and other performances on a regular basis. This allowed me to learn and compare and critique performers and different types of music. Because of the exposure, I also learned what my own tastes in music were. In order to appreciate music, one has to know about it and listen to it. — Outi Way, Lacombe, Alberta

Play an instrument

• Always have diverse music. Don't play just one certain type. An exposure to various genres of music breeds appreciation and acceptance.

• Play an instrument. Learning to play an instrument can be a source of joy and can open doors to different musical experiences.

• Take the family to musicals or outdoor concerts. This will give them a taste for live music instead of recorded music.

• Support community music. Local high schools frequently have choir or band performances.

— Kristen Sens, Chino Hills, Calif.

Sing to your children

Consider building a classical musical library for the family as some families collect videos, books and computer games. Other uplifting music is also good, but the classics never go out of date.

Sing to your infants. The musical tradition in our home starts at birth. Not only has singing to each new child been a blessing to soothe and bond, but it is also intellectually stimulating and fosters listening, concentration, memory, language skills and sensitivity. As our children get older, we continue to have bedtime songs that help them learn values and develop spirituality and testimony. Some of our favorites include "How Gentle God's Commands," "Families Can Be Together Forever," and "Jesus Loves the Little Children." — Linda Olsen, Sandy, Utah

Tune in to classics

Just as example is the best teacher of principles, exposure to good music is probably the best way to help our family members develop a love and appreciation for it. If there is a classical music station in your area, tune in during the day, especially while the children are home. If no such radio station exists, play good music on records, tapes or CDs; libraries often have many tapes and CDs to borrow.

Family home evenings can occasionally focus on learning about great composers and pieces of music. If children grow up hearing good music in the home, even though they may for a time listen to their own generation's popular styles, chances are they will also retain an appreciation for the classics as well. I am most grateful to my own parents for making sure we were constantly exposed to good music, and I still enjoy hearing it. — Karen Knowlton, Lake Villa, Ill.

Support child's recitals

We have a musical family. Following are some of the things my wife and I have done in our 23 years of marriage:

• Decide before you marry that you want beautiful music to be a part of your life. I have played the piano since age 4. My wife has a lovely voice. Both of us enjoy music. As I was courting, I looked for someone who loved music as much as I do. Luckily for me, I found her!

• Set reasonable goals. We decided that by the time each of our children reached the age of 12, they should be able to play most of the Church hymns. We have gently challenged each child to meet that goal, and we have had success. There is a great need for musical children — pianists or song leaders in Primary, Young Men and Young Women programs and especially in priesthood meetings. When your children go on missions, they will find that their musical talent is a valuable gift for the people they serve, especially in small wards or branches where the Church is getting established.

• Encourage children to perform, and attend their performances. There is nothing quite as motivating as applause after a performance. And parents who send their children to lessons but are too busy to attend recitals and other performances send contradictory messages, such as, "I want you to play, but listening to you doesn't interest me."

• Fill your home with music. We have two pianos, several saxophones, a trumpet, a guitar, an electronic keyboard, a violin, a cello and rhythm band instruments.

• Be patient. But don't give in when a child repeatedly voices a desire to quit lessons.

— Alan E. Barber, Idaho Falls, Idaho

Be grateful for music

Give thanks for music. Music is one of the sweetest gifts given to us by a loving Father in Heaven. Rejoice in it and express gratitude in personal and family prayer. — Jeff and Dallas Meyers, Elk Ridge, Utah