Benefits/Importance
of studying music
1. Improve Academics
One of the great benefits of learning music is the improvement of academic performance it brings. In one study done, "first graders who were behind the control group on reading and math skills, after participating in special music classes, they caught up to the control group after only seven months of training" (Brooks, 2021). In addition to this, studying music also allows students to have improvement in recognizing patterns, language skills, spatial awareness, and memorization. Studies also reveal that those who study music tend to perform better on tests such as SAT's. As students practive more, the whole brain is being used to process and learn the music, therefore helping in developing the brain and making it stronger.
3. Develop Creativity
Learning an instrument or to read music opens doors to many creative outlets. Music teaches students how to think outside the box and how to express themselves and their emotions. In addition, music can teach students how to solve problems and look for solutions such as when a student is stuck on a measure and needs to find a way to figure out the notes. Students have the chance to write their own songs and be creative in addition to improvising and coming up with solos on the spot. Students get to decide what they want to tell through the music and share who they are.
2. Health Benefits
"Music can improve mood, decrease pain and anxiety, and facilitate opportunities for emotional expression" (9 Health Benefits of Music). Studies and research show the numerous health benefits music has such as helping patients with alzheimer's recall memories after listening to their favorite song. In addition, when playing music, the brain's production of the hormone dopamine is boosted and can help relieve feelings of anxiety or depression. It also helps a person to have more focus, and relieve pain. As a person plays or listens to music, this acts as a strong competing stimulus to the pain signals that enter the brain, therefore allowing focus on the music instead of the pain.
4. Discipline and community
Learning an instrument requires patience, diligence, and discipline. It is not an easy task, but a rewarding one. Students be disciplined in having a routine practice schedule and working out difficult passages. Skills only progress when students are very disciplined.
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The reward of discipline is being ready to share that hard practice with others and to be able to play with others. The music community is a caring and special community. The love of music brings opportunity for performing in a band or performing solo in front of friends and family. "Music fosters understanding and respect of and between people of different backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, races. We get to know one another by learning, singing, playing, and dancing to each other’s music" (Kucsan, 2021). Music has brought cultures together for generations and creates meaningful and life lasting relationships and connections.
