Benefits of Music Education
Why take instrumental music?
Learning an instrument develops much more than simply performing music. Research continues to prove that students involved in school music programs show increased social/emotional development, critical thinking skills, and higher academic achievement in subjects outside of music.
Brain Development
Music activates multiple areas of the brain simultaneously. Students who participate in instrumental music are actively strengthening brain function such as memory, listening, reading, motor skills, and executive functioning
Social & Emotional Growth
Music is a subject that requires everyone in the room to work together. Given its nature, students learn to work together as a team, and build strong friendships. In addition to its community, music boosts internal motivation, confidence, and resilience through performance. In short, when we perform well, we feel good about ourselves. And that feeling stays with us in other areas.
Academic Benefits
Performing music incorporates nearly every aspect of school into one experience. As such, it often boosts academic achievement in other areas due to the consistent practice and synergy of these concepts and more:
Math – Counting rhythms & interpreting the value of symbols
Language – Expressive directions are often written in English, Italian, German, or French
Science – Actively responding to the physics of sound, instrument maintenance, and biological processes in music making
Social Studies – The historical roots of pieces of music are often tied to social perception and societal activity
Physical Education – Fine motor skills, coordination, and breath control
Lifelong Skills
Music is a unique subject in school because it demands a consistent push for accuracy in performance.
The unique experience of performing in a large group of musicians insists on the following skills:
Discipline – Responsibility – Preparation – Perseverance – Appreciation
In school, a 93% grade is equivalent to an A, the highest achievable score. Imagine for a second that the singer or musicians in your favorite song perform 100 notes, and get seven of those notes wrong (93% correct). Would those out of tune notes affect how you enjoyed the music? If you’re unsure, watch the video below of the Hopkins Symphonic Band & Wind Ensemble promoting music education in 2018 under the direction of Mr. Greg Conway.