Learning Music is Good for You!
Author: David Hines
We all know that playing a musical instrument can be a pleasurable experience for a child or adult. But there are also genuine benefits in learning to play, especially for children. Learning an instrument teaches children about delayed gratification. The violin, for example, has a steep learning curve. Before you can make a single sound, you must first learn how to hold the violin, how to hold the bow, and where to place your feet. Playing an instrument teaches kids to persevere through hours, months, and sometimes years of practice before they reach specific goals, such as performing with a band or memorizing a solo piece
Learning a musical instrument and foundation music education skills – such as clapping in time, singing in tune and moving to music – are some of the most complex cognitive activities the brain can undertake. Children and Adults who learn an instrument have shown in numerous studies that their ability to think laterally and creatively is greatly enhanced. There is a strong correlation between music and mathematics. Many of the world's leading mathematicians are also musicians.
Private lessons and practicing at home require a very focused kind of attention for even 10 minutes at a time. Group lessons, in which students learn to play the same instruments in an ensemble, also improve patience, as children must wait their turn to play individually. And in waiting for their turns and listening to their classmates play, kids learn to show their peers respect, to sit still and be quiet for designated periods of time, and to be attentive. Lessons offer a forum where children can learn to accept and give constructive criticism. Turning negative feedback into positive change helps build self-confidence. Group lessons, in particular, may help children understand that nobody, including themselves or their peers, is perfect, and that everyone has room for improvement.
But perhaps above all playing a musical instrument gives the player a wonderful way to relax and unwind whilst allowing for self expression. It doesn't matter how good you are. Playing a musical instrument will make your life better in so many ways. Enjoy!
