Music education benefits students in ways beyond musical skills, focusing on cognitive, emotional, and social growth. As we move into the next phase of the school year, I’d invite you to consider all of the benefits music lessons provide beyond just learning an instrument—which is very valuable in and of itself of course! In any case, read on to learn about why music is such an important tool for learning!
As a lifelong musician, I have benefited so much from taking lessons. I started early and have continued up through my current Masters degree program. It is always important to learn and grow no matter how old we are! Even though I’m a professional performer at this point, it is still so essential to continue working to better myself as a musician and person. In any event, I don’t know what I would have done without music as an option inside and outside of school. Young learners particularly derive so much good from learning an instrument, both musically and extra-musically. Here’s how!
Boosts Cognitive Skills: Learning an instrument improves memory, focus, and problem-solving, with benefits extending to math and language skills. When you learn to read music, you are essentially learning to communicate via a new language. Counting rhythms involves the mathematical part of the brain, and spending time practicing encourages discipline. Hand-eye-coordination is another huge benefit that comes form playing an instrument—so much time nowadays is spent on screens that doing something kinesthetic becomes rare. Playing instruments can help young musicians build muscle memory and foster fine motor skills.
Emotional and Social Growth: Music helps students express emotions, build empathy, and develop teamwork skills through group activities like choirs and bands. As a member of an ensemble, young musicians have to develop patience, listening abilities, and group understanding. Just like being part of a sports time, ensembles require participants to go beyond self-gain and work together. Many bands and choirs expose students to music and cultures they may not be familiar with, which can build social connections and encourage compassion and empathy for those who might not look, think, or speak the same.
Fosters Creativity: Music encourages creative thinking, especially through interpretation, composition, improvisation, and expression. As someone who struggles with social anxiety, music has always been my avenue for connecting with others. It allows people to communicate beyond words, and creates space for individual expressive growth. Even within a large ensemble, creativity is the backbone of music. Learning to stimulate one’s creativity takes practice—music is a unique method by which one can accomplish this.
Real-World Skills: Time management, discipline, and resilience are key life skills honed through music practice. It takes time to learn an instrument. No matter which one a young student selects, it will take time to learn how to produce a good sound and even more time to become proficient in musical literacy. Practicing often and well, eliminating distractions, and encouraging persistence are all absolutely essential for learning an instrument. What better way to instill values like patience and discipline than through honing a skill that will be with you forever?
Music education is about much more than just learning to play an instrument; it’s about developing well-rounded individuals who excel both inside and outside the classroom or studio. Of course, there are many more advantages to learning an instrument than just the ones included above—it’s also so much fun! Thank you for reading!
—Charissa Garrigus, Instructor at Vibe Music Academy
