Music education has been the subject of numerous studies, and the results consistently show that learning to play an instrument can positively impact cognitive development. A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience (Bengtsson, Nagy, Skare, Forsman, Forsberg & Ullén, 2005) found that musicians have a larger hippocampus, a brain region associated with memory and spatial navigation, compared to non-musicians. Another study published in the journal Nature (Hyde, Lerch, Norton, Forgeard, Winner, Evans, Schlaug, 2009) found that music training can increase the size of the corpus callosum, the bundle of nerve fibers that connects the left and right hemispheres of the brain. This can lead to improved communication between the two hemispheres, resulting in better cognitive skills, such as memory and problem-solving.
The benefits of music education extend beyond cognitive development. A study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology (Lappalainen, Laakso, Lehtinen, & Leppänen, 2017) found that playing an instrument can improve self-esteem and self-efficacy, particularly in children. Another study published in the Journal of Music Therapy(Bradt, Dileo, Magill, Teague, & Reed, 2011) found that music therapy can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults.
Music education can also foster a love of music that can last a lifetime. A study published in the Journal of Research in Music Education (Swanwick,1988) found that early music education can lead to a lifetime of music engagement, including listening, performing, and creating music. Furthermore, as people learn to play an instrument, they are exposed to a wide range of music, which can expose them to different cultures and time-periods, and help them to appreciate the beauty and complexity of different styles of music.
In addition to the cognitive and emotional benefits, music education can also be beneficial in a therapeutic sense. A study published in the Journal of Music Therapy (Bradt, Dileo, Magill, Teague, & Reed, 2011) found that music therapy can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults. Furthermore, for children and adults with special needs, music education can be a great way to develop social skills, coordination, and concentration.
Finally, music education can be a great way to develop teamwork and collaboration skills. A study published in the Journal of Research in Music Education (Madsen, 2016) found that ensemble participation can develop teamwork and collaboration skills. Playing in an ensemble, whether it’s a band, choir, or orchestra, requires working together to create a cohesive sound. This can help individuals to develop essential skills that can be applied to other areas of life.
In conclusion, numerous studies have shown that music education can positively impact cognitive development, self-esteem, mental health, and teamwork. Playing an instrument can help improve memory, concentration, and problem-solving, boost self-esteem, and foster a love of music that can last a lifetime. Furthermore, it can also provide therapeutic benefits, and be a great way to develop teamwork and collaboration skills. All these benefits make learning an instrument an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their overall well-being and quality of life.
Do you want to get more students and grow your music teaching business?