Why Study Music?

Recent neurological studies show that music study improves the wiring between the hemispheres and creates an increase in communication between the various parts of the brain. This leads to increased neural performance across all activities in which students are engaged. For this benefit alone, study is worthwhile.

Music requires the recruitment of many different skill sets.

Almost everything about music study can translate into all other aspects of a student’s life. The benefits of learning the discipline of practice, the skills of efficient practice, and problem resolution in relative isolation are incredible assets for any student.

Sports and group activities are often viewed as more “fun” by students, even in practice, as the presence of teammates and coaches provide constant feedback, camaraderie, and a reinforcing dopamine release, especially with the addition of a crowd on game day. This last part is a critical component to understand: the effect of dopamine on a student's perception of an activity's value. 

Parents, friends and family are often more engaged with these efforts, as well, providing more social reinforcement. Practice in these scenarios feels more like “play” and feels consistently rewarding.

However, as adults we know that there are many aspects in life in which we have to go it alone and rely on our own internal feedback and being able to do so is a critical skill set for success.

The ability to focus, face challenges and persevere without a large support system
and continual external feedback provides students with neurological and emotional development that will increase their overall success in life.

The list of skills acquired through music study is long, but to name a few:

• Creative problem solving skills
• Learning how to learn efficiently
• Developing the skills to recall information and actions under pressure
• Facing fears and insecurities
• Learning how to work through low motivation
• Developing mental discipline and fortitude
• Developing focus
• Learning attention to details
  
  

All of these benefits are worthwhile to the future doctor, scientist, lawyer, athlete, and just plain future human. A career in music is challenging and I don’t expect any student to want to pursue one. An activity doesn’t have to be a career in order for it to have tremendous life benefits.

Most of my students will not become professional athletes, but the benefits they reap from involvement in their sport activities are easily recognized and appreciated. Instrument study has the potential to go with a student for life and offer another critical skill set that is unique from other activities.

The joy of being able to play how you want, when you want, whatever you want is a worthwhile outcome on its own.