Does it seem that kids these days are always busy, running from one extra-curricular activity to another?
It can be hard to know what to prioritize.
As parents, you have to consider what will bring your child joy, what will build their life and empower them, and what will give them lasting positive benefits.
If you’re wondering what the benefits of learning a musical instrument are, here are just a few to keep in mind:
Learning a musical instrument improves brain processes.
According to several studies, learning a musical instrument has a long-term positive impact on a developing child’s brain, from reading/literacy scores to an improved nervous system. It’s important to note that just listening to music isn’t enough to make an improvement; kids have to be engaged in the music actively for it to make a positive difference. This means that learning to play a musical instrument is a critical part of this benefit.
Additionally, a study conducted during the 2020 lockdowns measured how learning a musical instrument affects IQ scores. Compared to people who took up other hobbies, people who learned to play a musical instrument increased their IQ score the most (10 points, on average). So, at any age, learning to play a musical instrument improves your brain processes.
Learning a musical instrument provides a creative outlet.
As children are still learning to navigate all the complex thoughts and emotions inside them, they can sometimes feel at a loss for how to fully explain express themselves. But if they know how to play a musical instrument, then they have more tools to creatively communicate themselves.
I’ve seen this several times in music lessons. A child will walk in, weary from their day at school. Maybe they had a fight with a friend, or maybe they’re worried about an assignment coming up. At this point, I’ll direct the student to channel everything they’re feeling into their music. This always provides relief and pride–they’ve found a way to express what was going on inside without needing to say a word.
Researchers found that playing in a musical group, band, or ensemble increased children’s empathy. These children, aged 8 to 11, were able to “recognize and consider the emotions of others” better than children who weren’t playing music together. By listening and responding to each other, children develop their ability to feel out a group in a nonverbal way. The shared experience of playing a musical instrument will give kids confidence in their day-to-day interactions
Learning a musical instrument increases health.
Learning to play a musical instrument can increase health in a number of ways for young and old alike. Studies show that music can decrease stress and levels of pain, while also boosting the immune system. Music can help offset the damages of dementia or other memory-affecting illnesses. Finally, music has also been shown to help address mental health challenges, like depression.
Learning a musical instrument teaches discipline and perseverance.
Ask anyone who’s learning to play a musical instrument, and they’ll tell you that, at times, it can be a bit…repetitive. Practicing the same song over and over, running scales, fine-tuning each note–this is not what every kid pictures when they imagine jamming out on the guitar.
And yet, this focus and attention to detail build discipline and perseverance in students that applies to every part of their life. Whether it’s homework or chores, these life skills teach kids that they can apply themselves to small tasks…and reap the rewards! All that practicing leads to a killer performance, the scales make way for an impressive solo, and the fine-tuning creates a perfect tone.
But of course, the final (and most important) benefit of learning to play a musical instrument is that it will increase your child’s happiness.
We see the joy on each student’s face when they get lost in the music. We see their pride and confidence when they know they can play their instrument well. We hear them exclaim, “Mom, Dad! Listen to what I can play!”
As you make your decisions about extra-curricular activities for your kids–and we know, it’s a hard choice–keep in mind all the benefits that learning a musical instrument would bring your child.
If you’re interested in trying out a discounted, introductory lesson, sign up here . Our teachers are available in Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek, and Mesa, AZ.
Beyond mental development, playing an instrument is a powerful stress reliever, offering a healthy emotional outlet and a sense of accomplishment. The advantages of playing a musical instrument include enhanced focus, discipline, and social skills, which in children and adults can lead to improved academic performance and self-confidence. Whether pursued for enjoyment or as a stepping stone to a professional career, learning an instrument is a deeply rewarding experience that enriches both the mind and soul, fostering lifelong skills and creativity.
The Neuroscience of Music & Brain Development
Music and brain development share a harmonious relationship, with research showing that learning an instrument strengthens neural connections and enhances cognitive abilities. Playing music engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously, including those responsible for memory, coordination, and problem-solving.
One key benefit is neural plasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize itself. Learning an instrument stimulates this process by creating new pathways between neurons, improving overall brain function. This leads to enhanced language skills, auditory processing, and even higher IQ levels.
Music also refines executive functions, such as focus, decision-making, and emotional regulation. Studies show that musicians often develop stronger working memory and greater attention to detail. These benefits extend beyond childhood, as playing an instrument can help preserve cognitive function later in life. By shaping brain architecture and boosting mental agility, music serves as a powerful tool for lifelong learning and development.
Emotional Harmony: The Psychological Impact of Music
Music has a profound effect on emotional well-being, offering both catharsis and enhanced emotional intelligence. Engaging with music — whether listening, composing, or performing — allows individuals to process emotions in a healthy and constructive way. The clear benefits of learning an instrument at a young age extend beyond skill development, as playing music provides an emotional outlet that fosters self-expression and resilience.
One of music’s greatest strengths is its ability to reduce stress and improve mental health. Playing an instrument stimulates the release of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that promote happiness and relaxation, which may lead to lower levels of anxiety and depression.
Additionally, learning an instrument strengthens emotional intelligence, helping individuals recognize, interpret, and regulate emotions more effectively. By promoting both self-awareness and empathy, music contributes to overall emotional balance, making it a powerful tool for mental and emotional well-being.
Discipline and Perseverance
Mastering an instrument requires dedication, patience, and persistence, making discipline a key component of musical success. The benefits of learning music at a young age extend far beyond playing ability — music education instills habits of focus, time management, and goal setting that translate into other areas of life.
For example, learning the violin is particularly challenging, requiring precise finger placement, bow control, and consistent practice. While progress may be slow, the perseverance required to improve builds resilience and self-motivation. These skills become ingrained, fostering a strong work ethic that benefits academic and professional pursuits.
A disciplined approach to music education also promotes delayed gratification, teaching students that consistent effort leads to long-term rewards. Over time, this mindset helps individuals tackle challenges with confidence, whether in school, career, or personal development. By cultivating discipline and perseverance, music shapes individuals into determined, focused, and goal-oriented individuals for life.
Social Symphony: Building Skills Through Music
Music is not just an individual pursuit — it thrives in collaboration. Playing in an ensemble or music group strengthens social skills, teaching individuals listening skills, communication, and teamwork. Whether in a school band, orchestra, or informal jam session, musicians must coordinate with others, adapting to tempo changes, harmonizing, and responding to cues.
The benefits of learning how to play an instrument extend beyond technical skills, as music fosters cooperation, patience, and leadership. Ensemble play teaches fellow musicians to value each member’s contribution, promoting teamwork and mutual respect. These experiences help musicians navigate relationships in both personal and professional settings.
Additionally, collaborative music-making builds confidence and a sense of belonging. Performing with others creates a shared sense of accomplishment, reinforcing trust and camaraderie. By engaging in musical collaboration, individuals develop lifelong interpersonal skills that strengthen their ability to work effectively with others in any environment.
Start Learning With Us
Learning to play an instrument at a young age offers numerous benefits, enhancing cognitive function, emotional intelligence, discipline, and social skills. Music education strengthens memory, improves focus, and provides a powerful outlet for self-expression and stress relief. Beyond technical skills, it fosters perseverance, teamwork, and confidence — essential traits for lifelong success.
At Musicians Made, our experienced staff is dedicated to guiding students on their musical pursuits, helping them grow both as musicians and individuals. We proudly serve the Queen Creek and Mesa communities; contact us for more information about our music lessons and start your musical journey today!