Young kids naturally gravitate to music. While being fun and enjoyable, introducing kids to music education at an early age can help them grow and develop in all areas of life.
“Early music is hugely beneficial, especially if you start between the ages of 6-8 years old,” says Pam Shortall, program director for Merit School of Music’s Voice, Piano and Guitar Programs. “In our society, where everything happens ‘instantly’ due to computers and smartphones, music helps kids to focus and apply themselves over a longer period of time.”
Here are seven ways music education is good for kids.
1. Music boosts cognitive skills and focus
Imagine your child slowing down, concentrating and mastering new skills step-by-step. Sounds great, right? Music education does just that.
“Early music education helps kids to develop good practice habits,” says Shortall, who has a background in classical voice. “No one gets good at music overnight. Learning an instrument or singing requires slowing down and practicing.”
These skills not only improve kids’ music skills, but can help build resilience and confidence in kids.
Plus, music is hugely stimulating to young brains. “Learning music is like learning another language,” Shortall says.
2. Music fosters a sense of community
Post-pandemic, many kids are relearning how to socialize and for a lot of kids, it hasn’t been easy. Music can be a beautiful way to build a community of peers and friends, says Shortall.
Since performance is part of the music experience, kids in music classes naturally learn to work together as a team on a goal. They also will meet kids who enjoy similar activities.
In addition, music classes are a low-stakes way of being social, Shortall says.
“Music ensembles offer a fun, low-pressure space for kids to collaborate, support each other and develop strong social skills. Kids become friends easily when they are encouraging each other in a joint endeavor.”
3. Music enhances memory, focus and academic retention
Music education is a proven memory booster. Learning notes, rhythms and melodies strengthens the brain’s ability to retain and recall information. This cognitive exercise may help kids excel in other academic subjects, by making it easier to remember and understand complex concepts.
“Nobody really sits you down in school and explains how to build good study habits,” Shortall says. “With music, building good habits and learning dedication and resilience are all part of the process. These skills can naturally evolve into better overall study habits and approach to academic learning.”
Plus, the discipline and dedication kids develop through music may lead to a more positive attitude towards school. Once a child knows they can improve a skill through practice, they may become more likely to apply this to other areas.
4. Music sparks creativity and critical thinking
Music is all about being creative, says Shortall. “Kids may extend this creativity to other artistic pursuits, such as painting, drawing or writing.”
Additionally, Merit’s music classes encourage students to reflect on their performances, identify mistakes and find creative solutions. Shortall says she is always amazed at seeing, for example, young piano students make a mistake and immediately analyze how they can do better next time, rather than getting discouraged.
This creative problem-solving ability will benefit your child in all areas of their life.
Shortall explains, “When students are allowed to develop their musical skills, they also develop critical thinking. Music allows children to learn to improve at something without feeling bad about mistakes they make. It’s just part of the process, not just for them, but for their peers in music class.”
5. Music boosts self-esteem and confidence
There’s nothing like the sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering a new piece of music. At Merit, your child will gain confidence in their abilities as they progress and perform, says Shortall.
“Performing in front of others, whether in a small group or a larger audience, further enhances their self-confidence and public speaking skills.”
This boost in self-esteem can help your child tackle other challenges with greater assurance.
6. Playing an instrument improves coordination and motor skills
Playing an instrument isn’t just about making beautiful sounds. It’s a great workout for the brain and body.
Whether strumming a guitar, pressing piano keys or managing breath control while singing, music enhances fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. These physical benefits carry over to other activities, improving overall dexterity and coordination.
7. Learning music increases cultural awareness and appreciation
Through music, children can travel the world from their classroom. At Merit, students explore music from diverse cultures, enhancing their global understanding, says Shortall.
“Understanding other types of music helps kids understand the world better. Wherever possible, we incorporate cultural music into piano, guitar and our other instruments. In choir, we frequently sing in different languages and embrace other cultures, such as including movement in the songs,” she explains.
Upcoming opportunities at Merit School of Music
Ready to learn more? Merit has two upcoming Open Houses: Aug. 3 in the West Loop at 38 S Peoria St and Aug. 17 in Old Town at their new Merit Near North Branch at 458 W Eugenie St. They also offer “Instrument Exploration” days where kids can try out instruments, meet teachers and talk to current students.
Merit has also introduced a 10-week guitar program so kids can get a taste of an instrument without a huge initial commitment.
Music is a fantastic way for kids to express themselves and think outside the box, says Shortall. Plus, it bonds kids to a common goal: “Music creates a natural sense of community.”
For more information about Merit School of Music, visit meritmusic.org.
