Why Music?
Music lessons are beneficial for everyone, child and adult alike. Regardless of your age, level, challenges or gifts, music brings with it a lifelong hobby, academic benefits and the skill of performing in front of others. The Carnegie Hall Achievement Program explains, "The study of music builds quantifiable skills as well: the development of attention, memory and spatial-temporal skills creates a solid foundation that children transfer to other areas. Researches have discovered that children who receive music instruction score higher in verbal and nonverbal subtests on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale.
Discipline
Regular music lessons teach a child how to have discipline to work at something to get better. For many children, music lessons are the first structured activity in which they are involved. It often takes several months for a student to get in the routine of music lessons and practicing, but with positive parent support at home, the discipline of working to achieve results may be learned. Students also learn how to manage their time and achieve goals.
Academics
Many studies show that music lessons, especially between the ages of 3 and 7 years old, increases tests scores, reading comprehension, math and science ability, cognitive skills and other important aspects of intellectual and academic development. Music is like a language, so it is best to begin music lessons during the years in which children best learn a language (before 7 years old).
Enjoyment
Music is something everyone can enjoy. Whether it's playing carols so the family can gather around the piano during the holidays, serenading someone or performing on a large stage, we can all enjoy listening to or playing a musical instrument through our entire lives.
Performing
Whether it's performing as a musician or presenting in a board room, the poise and posture learned in music recitals is useful for the future. Learning how to be in front of others without being nervous can mean having the ability to do well in interview, present confidently to the board and give that speech that is so important. Through our Share Your Music performances, students have many opportunities to learn how to perform in front of others.
Expression
Music gives children and adults an opportunity to express themselves in a way that is safe, enjoyable for themselves and others, and relieving of stress.
Focus
Children who have difficulty focusing can learn how to have better attention spans through music lessons. Of course, this happens over time, not right away, but gradually children can better learn to keep their mind on the task at hand. For adults, music lessons keep the mind sharp and alert.
Creativity
In music, students have the opportunity to develop their creativity through writing their own music, interpreting the manner in which a piece is played or performed, and in ensembles with others. Students are inspired when they can own what they are performing.
Teamwork
Students frequently have the opportunities to work on pieces with other students. When musicians perform in an ensemble, no matter how large or small, teamwork is a necessary component. This is an important skill to learn for lifelong success in the business world or with in other relationships.
