Music learning makes the musician learn better
Several studies have found that music education enriches the mind. For example:· A University of California (Irvine) study showed that after eight months of keyboard lessons, preschoolers showed a 46% boost in their spatial reasoning IQ.· The same researchers found that children given piano lessons significantly improved in their spatial- temporal IQ scores (important for some types of mathematical reasoning) compared to children who received computer lessons, casual singing, or no lessons.A McGill University study found that pattern recognition and mental representation scores improved significantly for students given piano instruction over a three-year period. They also found that self-esteem and musical skills measures improved for the students given piano instruction.· Elderly subjects had significant decreases in anxiety, depression, and loneliness following keyboard lessons.· Hong Kong researchers have found children who are given musical training have better verbal memories than those who have not had lessons. The researchers suggest music lessons stimulate the left side of the brain, which also controls verbal learning.Music lessons enhance the individual in various intellectual, physical, psychological and spiritual aspects by offering the following:
1. Social Development
2. Self Confidence
3. Cultural Enrichment
4. Self-Discipline
5. Significant intellectual development
6. Enhanced spatial intelligence in babies
7. Shaping of individual abilities and character
8. Significant decreases in anxiety, depression
9. Dexterity and motor control development
10. Stimulates the development of both sides of the brain
Skills attained through the discipline of music transfer to study skills, communication skills, and cognitive skills useful in every part of an academic curriculum. The benefits conveyed by music education can help lead to success in society, education, and subsequently, success in life.
This article was compiled by Lusiana Lukman, ARCT, B.Mus., M. Mus. She is the Founding Director of the Classical Music Conservatory.
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