7 Reasons Why You Need Music Education

It’s International Day of Education, and we think it’s appropriate share some of the benefits of music education with you.

Music is undeniably enjoyable, whether you are creating it or simply listening. Yet, its value extends far beyond mere entertainment. Here are some of the significant advantages of music education for people of all ages:

• Music education boosts focus: Musical performance, in its very essence, is a highly demanding activity that requires a deep and sustained level of cognitive engagement. 

The requirement to simultaneously read or recall sheet music, coordinate complex physical movements (whether playing an instrument or singing), listen critically to one’s own output and that of others, and interpret the emotional nuances of the piece all work together to enhance focus. 

This requirement for concentration acts as a training regimen for the brain. This leads to a significant improvement in one’s general attention span and ability to concentrate effectively in various other areas of life. 

From tackling complex academic subjects to maintaining focus during professional meetings or even managing daily tasks, the sustained mental discipline cultivated during musical practice translates into superior cognitive stamina and executive function across the board.

• It is Therapeutic: Music education offers a profound range of therapeutic benefits that extend to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, with a particularly significant impact on children with special needs. 

Engaging with music—whether through listening, singing, playing an instrument, or moving—serves as a powerful, non-verbal medium for expression and communication. 

For children with conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and various developmental delays, music therapy can be instrumental in enhancing cognitive function, improving motor skills, and fostering emotional regulation. 

It provides a structured, predictable, and enjoyable environment where learning and development can occur naturally. Furthermore, the rhythmic and melodic elements of music stimulate neural pathways, which can lead to measurable improvements in attention span, memory, and language development, making music education an invaluable component of a holistic and inclusive educational curriculum.

•  It reduces stress levels: Music is versatile. It offers both a soothing and lively experience. Studies indicate that listening to music stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain, a chemical linked to feelings of happiness. Furthermore, engaging with music, whether by playing or listening, has been demonstrated to lower stress levels in both children and adults.

• It improves Maths Skills: Playing a musical instrument improves math skills. Music is fundamentally built upon recognising and creating patterns. Musical scales, chords, and rhythmic structures all involve counting and division. They rely on predictable sequences and logical progressions. 

The practical application of fractions, divisions, and progression provides a concrete, auditory, and kinesthetic understanding that complements abstract classroom learning.

What’s more! The structured, sequential, and ratio-based nature of musical study serves as a robust and engaging foundation for developing strong mathematical intuition and skill.

• Increases test scores: Music education demonstrably boosts academic performance, as evidenced by higher standardised test scores. 

A study by the National Association for Music Education found that students involved in playing musical instruments consistently achieved superior SAT scores compared to their peers without musical training. 

This correlation may be attributed to the self-discipline fostered through the process of learning and performing music.

• Better language skills: Music education has been shown to enhance language skills in young children. For instance, a study conducted by MIT discovered that kindergartners who received private piano lessons significantly improved their ability to distinguish pitch, which contributed to better language skills overall.

• It enhances positivity: Engaging with music, whether through actively playing an instrument or diligently learning the skills required to do so, offers profound benefits. This pursuit is inherently rewarding. It fosters a sense of accomplishment and personal growth, resulting in a more optimistic outlook on life. 

The discipline of practice, the joy of performance, and the creative expression inherent in music all contribute to enhanced emotional well-being and a more fulfilled existence.

The best time to start playing music was yesterday. The next best time is now!

Happy International Day of Education!