The Value of Music Lessons

The cost of music lessons is, for some people, seen as an unnecessary expense. Some parents can be hesitant to send their child for instruction, given the time and dedication it takes to start seeing significant progress. But recent studies done on the brains of musicians proves it to be a wise investment.

Neurobiology and Music

Learning and processing music is correlated with a highly developed brain which comprehends problems more efficiently and solves them creatively. In fact, professional musicians have been shown to have an elevated IQ when compared to non-musicians.

But how and why is this the case?

The act of reading music is highly complex, utilizing areas from both the left and right hemispheres of the brain. Consider the number of things a musician has to keep track of in order to play a simple line of music: read and translate the musical notes and symbols accurately, coordinate their hands to play the appropriate keys, keep a steady beat, and then interpret the information into something emotionally evocative for the listener.

And that's just the bare minimum. What about the concentration it takes to watch the conductor, listen and blend with other musicians, and coordinate their breathing? Musicians are constantly integrating both technical and emotional facilities.

It's no wonder, then, that we see an increase in their ability to see the whole picture. Musicians tend to be better planners, responding with skill and flexibility to whatever circumstances they face. In the above cited study, musicians showed demonstrably higher creativity, suggesting high aptitude for problem solving. This ability to come up with more solutions to complex problems is called divergent thinking.

What You Can Do

So how can you or your child take advantage of the awesome benefits that music offers? It's simple: pick up an instrument you've always wanted to learn, start taking music lessons, and stick with it! The cost is well worth the price of admission, especially when you take into account the benefits for the brain and the fun you'll have actually learning and playing your favorite songs.

Impress your friends and family at your next gathering, or even start a band and share your love of music with the community. The friendships and bonds formed through music are truly invaluable.

The Case for Music

Music enriches our lives, making the world a better place to live in. It makes us smarter, emotionally grounded, and more connected to ourselves and others. The case for learning music makes itself.

Thanks for reading! If you have a moment, please leave a comment down below and let us know what you think.

Rock Island Sound is a music school with locations in Rye and Tarrytown, New York. We offer music lessons, rentals, and repairs for all, so please stop by if you're in the neighborhood.