We’re all hoping to provide our children with a well-rounded education which not only reaps the benefits of technical subjects, like math and science, but also nurtures essential life skills and personal growth. An undeniably powerful tool to help achieve this goal is to include music lessons in one’s day-to-day learning. Let’s explore how the study of music can help bring balance into a student’s educational experience.
1. Embellishes Learning
By far, the best thing about music lessons is that they are unlike any other subject in school. Students get to take a break from their daily class routine, relax a little, and tap into their creativity.
A 2021 study, which looked at the effect of music activities on health and wellbeing, found that positive effects on mood and emotion regulation were reported by participants across all music activity categories (including playing instruments, group singing, dancing, songwriting, and more). In particular, a decrease in anxiety and increased optimism were commonly reported. It’s clear that music is a great class for reducing stress.
Music classes provide a nurturing environment for students to be more social. When children participate in group activities like choir, orchestra, or band, they learn the value of teamwork, cooperation, communication, plus have a chance to make new friends.
2. Synergizes the 3 R’s
Despite being uniquely different from typical classroom subjects, music naturally incorporates the use of other academic skills to give the brain a full workout. Learning how to play a musical instrument (including voice) activates the brain’s neural pathways associated with language, problem-solving, critical-thinking, and more. Studies reveal that students engaged in music programs perform better in reading, writing, and arithmetic compared to those who are not.
3. Physical Coordination
Playing an instrument involves bilateral coordination, where both hands, fingers, or feet work independently. A study on the fine motor skills of children after two years of piano lessons found significant improvements compared to those who didn’t receive lessons. The development of strong fine motor skills opens up pathways to careers which requires “an eye” for physical detail such as: jewelers, electricians, mechanics, painters, architects, doctors and surgeons.
Getting Started with Lessons
There’s no wrong time to begin learning an instrument, however, we recommend age 6 and up. Here are three ideas to guide you towards a harmonious result:
Explore Your Child’s Interests: Observe what instruments or musical styles they’re naturally drawn to. You can try listening to different genres together, visit a music store, or attend a live musical performance either locally at a restaurant, school, church, special event, or at a concert hall. Our area is especially full of amazing and gifted musicians who perform on a regular basis.
Consult Music Teachers: Reach out to a teacher and visit their studio/classroom to understand the various instrument options and which might suit you best.
Create a Practice Routine: Encourage regular practice by establishing a consistent routine. Short and frequent practice sessions at the same time of day (several days a week) are more effective than irregular ones that happen “maybe” twice a week.
So, as you enter this new school year, consider creating a balance in your child’s educational plan with music lessons.
Studio 237 Music is now open for lessons. Our teachers are ready to instruct you on: piano, guitar (acoustic, electric, bass, classical), ukulele, voice, drums, and songwriting. For more information, call Ray or Lisa Cyr at (850) 231-3199 LL or 850.797.3546 cell. Visit our site at www.Studio237Music.com.
