Introduction

Learning to play a musical instrument is one of the most worthwhile endeavors a child can experience. The benefits are varied and far-reaching, even for a student who does not become a serious musician. Music can positively affect nearly every aspect of a child's life. Below is a compilation of some of these benefits.

Hand-eye ordination: The art of reading music while simultaneously forming correct fingerings and hand-positions really enhances dexterity, an ability which transfers to other activities.

Increased self-esteem and sense of accomplishment. Mastering a difficult musical passage or learning to play a piece well from beginning to end after hours of practice produces quite a sense of pride.

Listening skills: A child soon learns that careful listening to the director and to the surrounding musicians during band or orchestra practice is a requirement. Learning how to listen can help with schoolwork, sports, or other leisure activities

Sense of commitment and self-discipline: A decision to undertake the study of musical instrument requires both of these.

Accepting constructive criticism: Understanding the purpose and necessity of criticism is important for personal growth. Music can help a child learn how to accept criticism and turn it to his or her advantage.

Working with others: Playing in any ensemble requires a spirit of teamwork.

Poise in front of an audience: Whether as a soloist or part of an ensemble, staying calm and focused while under pressure is an invaluable skill for life.

Responsibility: A musical instrument requires your child take responsibility for her practice schedule.

Time management: Preparing a lesson from week to week requires a child to plan for adequate practice time.

Critical thinking and attention to detail: Figuring out complex rhythms or deciding which alternate fingering to use helps to foster higher level thinking skills. Students learn to break down a problem into small chunks.

Language skills: Traditionally, all of that important information on tempo, dynamics, and style found on a piece of music are written in Italian, and sometimes French or German.

Sensitivity: The emotional benefit of studying music can't be discounted. Learning to sense the nuances of a melody or the subtleties of a particular musical style nurtures a special kind of intuitiveness.

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