All too often children are being listened to, but by unforgiving sibling ears. I have come to the conclusion that real musical maturation is possible only in an environment in which each family member is aware of the power of their listening.

Of course, I have the piano in mind. Located, as it usually is, right in the middle of shared family space, it is almost impossible for the child playing to feel free, that is, to cultivate a sense of listening on her own terms.

I can tell when the older brother of one of my students is home on vacation from college. He becomes insecure and tense--the opposite of his usual self.