So you're thinking about enrolling your child in music lessons? Here are seven reasons why you should do it.
Learning music leads to:
The benefits of learning music have been researched for years. Recent academic studies have found that children who learned to play an instrument showed increased cognitive function and better memory. They also found that children who learned to play music were better at communicating with others. The studies also concluded that music education helped with discipline, the expression of emotions and confidence, test scores and grades. So if you're looking for a way to help your child excel in school and in life, consider enrolling them in music lessons!
Let's dive into some of the benefits of learning music!
Music has been shown to improve cognitive function, communication skills, and memory skills in children
Improved cognitive function
One of the main benefits of learning music is that it can help improve cognitive function. Music involves a lot of different skills, such as memory, problem solving, focus, and coordination. All of these skills are important for academic success.
Atur Jaschke, PhD, a clinical neuro-psychologist at the University of Amsterdam said "learning an instrument provides a full-brain workout, stimulating growth and building connections in various regions throughout the brain." Jaschke and his team conducted a lengthy study on the impact structured music lessons has on tests and IQ scores. They noticed dramatic results (we'll discuss some of these later in this article).
Music trains the mind to work differently than most other subjects. But, the beauty of music is that this happens in an enjoyable way. Learning a musical instrument is fun, so it's a great way to develop the brain while enjoying the process.
Improvements in math skills
There is a strong connection between music and math. Musical notes are mathematical. Musical measures and notes are broken up into smaller parts like halves, quarters, eighths and sixteenths. Understanding this can help children improve their understanding of math.
Notes are only one thing that make the connection between the two subjects. Song forms are based on patterns. The number of musical measures in songs typically follow patterns and ratios.
Musicians often count beats, measures or bars and even divide music up in their head while they play. Many children who are involved in music education programs excel in math. This is because they are using similar skills for both.
Improved communication skills
Musical training also helps improve communication skills. Music is a form of communication that involves both verbal and non-verbal aspects. It can help kids learn to express themselves better and communicate their ideas more clearly.
Musical communication cannot be replicated anywhere else. Musicians can say so much by just playing a single note or a musical phrase. The more experienced a person is on their instrument, the more they are able to communicate when they play.
Music also requires cooperation and teamwork, which helps children learn to communicate effectively with others. Research shows that learning music also improves children's ability to learn a second language.
Many children who struggle with verbal communication or who tend to be more introverted find that playing an instrument allows them to express what they feel inside in a way that is different than speaking.
Music is a language and some people find that the language of music offers a way to communicate that is beyond words.
Improved memory
Another benefit to learning music is that it helps improve memory. Music involves a lot of different information, such as notes, rhythms, patterns, and lyrics. All of this information needs to be remembered and processed leading to improvements in memory.
Higher test scores
Studies have found that kids who took music lessons had higher test scores.
The University of Amsterdam conducted a lengthy and comprehensive study to understand the effects of music education in children. The results were conclusive. Students who spent at least 18 months learning to play an instrument saw improvements in tests of memory, planning, reasoning, focus and self-control. But, after 2.5 years of music education the performance improvements became much more pronounced. The students who had learned music increased their test scores by 14-18% and their IQ by about 15 points!
Music training can also help with discipline and focus, and can provide a creative outlet for emotions
Improved discipline and focus
Kids who spend time learning an instrument often have better discipline and focus. Patience and practice are required resulting in improvements in discipline and focus over time.
Creative outlet
Humans need to express themselves creatively. Those who learn music have a creative outlet. Music can be used to express emotions in a safe and healthy way. It can help kids explore their creativity and come up with new ideas with tangible results.
Unique expression
Music can also help kids develop their own unique style. Every musician has their own sound and style. By learning music, kids can begin to develop their own personal sound, define their preferences and learn how to become endlessly creative through their musical tastes and preferences.
Learning music is a great way to help your child develop confidence and social skills
Improved confidence
There are many benefits to learning music, but one of the most overlooked is the boost in confidence it provides.
When it comes to self-esteem, music can be a powerful tool. Learning to play an instrument or sing in front of others can be a daunting task for kids, but it can also help them build confidence.
Kids who learn music often feel better about themselves. They learn that they are capable of doing something difficult and that they can achieve their goals with practice and patience.
Life is challenging and an individual's mental health is paramount to their success. Music helps reduce stress, increase feelings of achievement and contributes to decreased levels of anxiety and stress.
Better social skills
Learning to play a musical instrument can also help develop social skills. Playing in a band or group requires working cooperatively with others, listening to instructions, and following directions. These skills are important for academic and social success.
Musicians often have a strong sense of self-confidence. This is because they have achieved something that is difficult and requires a lot of practice. Musical groups are like small communities where everyone has their role in order to improve the good of the community.
You never have to stop learning music
Never too old
Most professional athletes don't play past their 30's. However, musicians play well into their older years. Physical activity and sports are tremendous for kids and they provide a perfect balance for kids who also learn music. But, there is no end to learning music, it can be a lifelong endeavor.
Conclusions
Research shows that the benefits of music are tremendous for children. It can help improve cognitive function, communication skills, memory skills, discipline and focus, and provide a creative outlet for emotions. Kids who learn music often have better academic success, self-esteem and social skills.
Music is a great way to help your child excel in school and in life! if you haven't already, get them involved in a music program, or learning to play a musical instrument right away.
Try our program, My Music Workshop for free here. We offer members access to on-demand piano, drum, ukulele and vocal lessons. We also provide worksheets, practice journals, downloadable music and parent support. It's a great way to get kids started on their musical journey in a convenient and affordable way.
FAQ
Q: What are the benefits of learning music for kids?
A: Music has been shown to improve cognitive function, communication skills, and memory skills in children. It can also help with discipline and focus, and provide a creative outlet for emotions and improves confidence.
Q: What is the best age to start music lessons?
A: The earlier the better. Like learning a language, exposure to music from an early age deepens a persons ability to understand the language of music. Read our recent article "What Musical Instrument Should My Child Start With?" that explains the best ages to start kids on various instruments.
Q: What is the best instrument for kids to learn?
A: This depends on the the child and what they are interested in. However, the piano is considered a great instrument for kids, as is the ukulele and even the drums. Our article "What Musical Instrument Should My Child Start With?" explains what instruments you might want to consider for you child and the reasons why.
Q: What are the best ways to start learning music?
A: This depends on the age of your child. Private lessons or online music programs are great choices. Other ways to get your child learning music are.
Listen to Music Around Your Kids
Encourage Children to Dance and Sing
Get Instruments to Play at Home
Watch Live Music or Music Online
Check us out at www.mymusicworkshop.com to get your child learning an instrument like piano, drums or ukulele today. We've been trusted by tens of thousands of students in over 13 years in music education. We've also worked with some of the largest school districts in the U.S.
