Music for All: The Lifelong Benefits of Learning an Instrument

Thank you to Crowfield Living Magazine for featuring us in the June edition of the magazine. You can read the full article below!

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As a young child I was drawn to the language of music. It encouraged me to listen, to move, to learn, and to create. I fortunately had the opportunity to begin formal music lessons during my preschool years and music changed the trajectory of my life as I now work as a music therapist, educator, performer, and church musician. ​

The benefits of music have affected me during every stage of life; however, some benefits had even greater prominence during my childhood and adolescent years than my adult years. No matter what stage of life you are in, I hope my experiences will encourage you to consider learning a new instrument, picking an instrument back up, or continuing your current studies with renewed enthusiasm. 
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Childhood

Dr. Anita Collins, a researcher on brain development and music learning stated, “Playing music is the brain’s equivalent to a full-body workout.” Practically speaking, as a child I believe my… 

• Literacy skills were accelerated through singing lyrics
• Mathematical skills were reinforced through studying rhythms
• Comprehension and retention skills were enhanced through studying and memorizing music 
• Gross and fine motor skills were strengthened through holding picks, playing foot pedals, and using all 10 fingers independently to play a song
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Learning music also taught me discipline and time management skills from a young age. I played my instrument almost everyday, even when I did not want to (thank you Mom and Dad)! With practice, I saw consistent improvement and I learned that if I put my mind to do something and set aside the time, I could accomplish it. 
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Adolescence

Simply put, being a teenager can be difficult. When navigating a variety of emotions and experiences, I always turned to music as an outlet. Whether I was sad or happy, angry or calm, I wanted to sit and play music. Music both promoted my creativity and relieved stress. 

Additionally, during high school I started having more performance opportunities from talent shows to performances and competitions. These experiences gave me a sense of achievement and boosted my self-confidence.
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Adulthood

As an adult, I’m grateful the benefits from my childhood and adolescent years have continued with me. Additionally, music has increased my social interaction through jam sessions with friends, open mic nights, choir, and more. 

Finally, music is something I will continue to carry with me forever; it is a lifelong hobby.  As a music therapist, I have the privilege to spend time each month with a group where each member has a dementia diagnosis. Because music is accessed in every area of the brain, the group is able to remember lyrics to songs and sing with enthusiasm. One resident is a pianist and even though she doesn’t know the day of the week or perhaps her family members’ names anymore, she can still sit at the piano and play her favorite songs. Music is truly a gift! 

As we approach more laid-back summer schedules, I would encourage you to consider setting aside time to engage with music, no matter your age! If you’re not sure where to get started, feel free to contact us directly and we’d be glad to talk with you!

- Holly Slice, Owner SC Music Lessons LLC