BY VICTOR LOPEZ

One of the main benefits of music instruction is that it helps children improve their math and reading skills. A 2019 study by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that children who had music lessons scored higher on standardized tests in math, reading and other subjects, even after controlling for other variables such as socioeconomic status and parental education. The large sample size and rigorous control of variables make this study particularly noteworthy: more than 112,000 primary and secondary student records were examined in British Columbia, Canada. 

"Students who participated in music, who had higher achievement in music, and who were highly engaged in music had higher exam scores across all subjects, while these associations were more pronounced for those who took instrumental music rather than vocal music," said Peter GouzouaPh.D., Ph.D., one of the study's authors.

 

This makes sense, as musicians learn to read rhythms and melodies, which can improve skills in other areas of life. In addition, the discipline required for music practice helps develop patience and a strong work ethic, which are essentials for success in any field. When it comes to reading music, the rules of notation can be complicated at first, but mastering this skill will help students learn how numbers correspond with pitch and rhythm. This is essentially an introduction to basic math concepts such as fractions that have been used since ancient civilizations began keeping records of melodies.

Learning to play an instrument can also increase brain activity. According to a recent news report in the Huffington Post, "science has shown musical training can change brain structure and function for the better, improve long-term memory and lead to better brain development for those who start in childhood." The article cited a study by the University of Montreal, revealing that musicians have significantly quicker reaction times than non-musicians. The results suggest that learning an instrument may help your brain stay sharp as you get older, and it might aid in preventing some cognitive declines in senior citizens.

This research's findings align with those found in a 2003 Israeli study, which found that musicians have more gray matter than non-musicians. Gray matter is the part of the brain that contains nerve cells, and it is responsible for muscle control, sensory perception, speech, decision-making, and self-control. More gray matter means a more efficient brain. Furthermore, a report published by the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine showed that music can keep "your brain young." 

"Research has shown that listening to music can reduce anxiety, blood pressure, and pain as well as improve sleep quality, mood, mental alertness, and memory," the report read.

Studies have also shown that children who learn to play musical instruments are less likely to suffer from attention deficit disorders, depression, and anxiety. Some researchers believe that because playing music requires a child's active participation in the process of learning an instrument, it teaches discipline and self-expression. 

There is also evidence that the process of learning an instrument can help children develop a sense of accomplishment and boost their self-esteem. A 2017 study carried out in a school located in a disadvantaged neighborhood in Colombia concluded that "musical activities had a significant impact on children's self-esteem and especially upon its cognitive component." 

Music can also help children develop leadership skills. Playing an instrument requires a child to listen attentively, follow directions, and take turns. In a group setting, this can help children learn to cooperate and work together harmoniously towards a common goal. In addition, music often involves working with other people to create something beautiful. This teaches children the importance of collaboration and that their contributions are valuable even if they're not soloists or the main attraction. 

There's also evidence that music instruction can improve children's communication skills, especially their ability to express themselves verbally and use language to persuade others. Leaders have to be able to communicate effectively for their ideas and plans to become a reality. No one wants to follow a leader who can't get their message across.

Musicians are also encouraged to practice patience and perseverance, which is necessary when learning an instrument or performing in front of others. It's easy for children to give up on something they find difficult if it doesn't come easily—but musicians must have the discipline and determination to keep practicing, even when it's challenging. This can teach children the value of hard work and how to stick with things until they achieve their goals.

Finally, learning to play a musical instrument can lead to a longer lifespan. According to a study from the Netherlands, writers and musicians born between 1700 and 1899 had a life expectancy comparable to society's most elite strata. Despite their poor living conditions, the study found, musicians and writers lived longer than their non-musician, non-writer counterparts. 

It makes sense that musicians would have a longer lifespan since music has been shown to have so many benefits for the mind and body, as discussed above. Anxiety and depression, for example, which music can help alleviate, are among the top causes of premature death. 

In conclusion, it's evident that music instruction provides a wealth of benefits for children. Not only does it help with cognitive development, but it can also improve mental health, leadership skills, communication abilities, and Lifespan. If you're looking for an activity to enrich your child's life, look no further than music lessons. Help your kids reach their full potential by introducing them to the world of music.