Music Makes You SMART

Research studies have been conducted for decades on the effects of musical education and intelligence on both children and adults. Results show that music positively affects multiple developmental stages of growth. It not only improves a child’s cognitive development but also improves memory, attention span, language proficiency, mathematical learning, and reading abilities. In other words, music fine-tunes your brain!

Music is more than entertainment, it’s essential. It is often referred to as the ‘universal language’. Music is a powerful tool used by people all over the world to express emotions and develop character. It helps our mind and body work in concert (pun intended).

“Learning about music helps open the world and broaden cultural awareness for students of all ages,” Morgan Walker, General Manager of Paducah Symphony Orchestra told me. “Whether it was in the 19th century or the 1960’s, you can learn about composers, significant periods in history, and how music shaped culture.

Scholastic Success

Specifically in children, music helps the brain develop while teaching focus and listening skills.

R esults from studies consistently show that music education has a significant impact on overall psychological well-being and improves academic scores. Musically inclined students have better recall, concentration, and retention of verbal information, helping them perform better in subjects such as math and reading.

Speaking Of Math…

If music is considered an art, how can it help with math scores? Music is parallel to math as both involve critical thinking and problem-solving skills. When learning music, you have to count, understand beat, and listen to play along with the rhythm. All of these things are measured in numbers, hence helping the mind comprehend and process mathematics.

“Music classes allow children to engage musically with other children, providing even more socialization and communication opportunities,” Amy Allen, owner of Harmony Road said. “It’s important to make daily musical interaction with your child a priority no matter how young they are. Clap, dance, bounce, and play instruments together. You will both have fun while you’re boosting their brain power.”

Music classes taught by skilled, experienced instructors provide a great way to gain musical knowledge. Our area has a multitude of wonderful instructors who can help you and your child pick an instrument that will best suit their needs.

“I like the Suzuki philosophy that Every Child Can,” Amy Blewett, owner of Blewett Music Studio told me. “Talent isn’t something that just a few people are born with. It can be developed through proper instruction and repetition.

Memories & Melodies

Learning an instrument has many benefits for adults as well. It helps improve and maintain cognitive thinking and memory. As we age, our memory naturally fades and our motor skills decrease. Playing an instrument like the guitar requires you to memorize which strings produce what notes and how to play those chords. Instruments like violin, piano, and guitar call for both hands to simultaneously perform different actions. By playing an instrument, you can stimulate your memory and cognitive thinking all while keeping your motor skills as fit as a fiddle.

“I have a student in his 80’s learning to play the piano,” Amy Blewett told me. “He is keeping his brain awake and keeping dementia away! Music is good for growing minds as well as aging ones.”

In every age group, music boosts self-esteem, teaches patience, and most importantly - it’s fun! Playing an instrument makes our brain work quickly and efficiently. By concentrating on reading music while converting it into the physical motion of playing, hand-eye coordination will significantly improve.

Peaceful Pain Relief

Relief from chronic pain could literally be music to your ears. When the brain focuses on music and the joy it brings, our focus shifts from discomfort. Music can lower stress and elevate our mood which helps both our blood pressure and heart health. It provides a peaceful oasis to escape the chaos of everyday life as it decreases anxiety, agitation, and depression. Taking a few moments to relax may be exactly what the doctor ordered.

Learning Patience

Let’s face it, patience is not something everyone is born with. Playing an instrument teaches patience as you must push through hours, days, and weeks of practice. Some people take to an instrument like a fish to water, but not everyone. Give yourself some grace and regroup. Remember, practice makes perfect!

“Have patience with your progress,” Bruce Baldwin, owner of Baldwin Piano & Organ Center said. “Musicians are always moving through phases and improving as they go. Reading music is a wonderful skill that helps you collaborate with other musicians and play more precisely. You won’t learn overnight how to read every note, so just be in the moment and learn at your own pace.”

Learning an instrument is not considered a hobby for the weak. Some instruments promote good posture, like the violin. Besides stimulating both sides of the brain while playing, the violin also has physical benefits. We all spend too much time hunched over a computer, phone, or tablet. Sit up tall and get ready for an upper-body workout!

“It’s impossible to properly play the violin without sitting or standing correctly,” Bob Story, owner of Symphony Supply told me. “Some stringed instruments build strong upper arms, shoulder muscles, and even a stronger core. Your muscles may be sore after lessons, but your muscles and stamina will increase over time with your training.”

Singing, creating music, or simply listening to music helps develop important mental processes. No matter what age you are, you can learn how to play an instrument. Whether you are enrolling your toddler in music class, introducing your teen to a new instrument, or an adult who always wanted to learn how to play, it’s never too soon or too late to begin. Get up, march to the beat of your own drum, try something new, and have fun! 