5 reasons why it is worth investing in musical education

Music is one of the most powerful tools that humanity possesses. As Plato said, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” Therefore, investing in music education not only develops musical skills, but also positively influences intellectual, emotional, and social development of an individual. Since ancient times, music has been considered an important element of social and cultural life. Aristotle already stated that “music is an essential part of education.” Through learning music, we develop auditory skills, concentration, memory, and the ability to work in a group. Scientific research confirms that learning to play a musical instrument has a positive impact on brain development. Therefore, investing in music education can contribute to improving results in mathematics and other STEM subjects.

1. Development of interpersonal skills
Music is not only an art, but also a form of communication. Through playing instruments or singing in a choir, you learn to cooperate with others, listen and respond to signals from other people. It is an excellent tool for building relationships with others.
For centuries, music has been considered a universal language that can reach people’s hearts regardless of age, culture, or background. However, in addition to this, music also has tremendous potential in developing individuals’ interpersonal skills. Through learning music, we can improve our communication skills, empathy, cooperation, and listening skills.
Collaborating in a musical ensemble requires not only mastering your instrument perfectly, but also the ability to listen and respond to signals from other musicians. Just like in everyday life, where we often have to collaborate with other people, learning music teaches us how to effectively communicate and work together in a group.

Jan Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)

Learning music also develops our empathy and ability to understand the feelings of others. By playing or singing musical pieces, we have to empathize with the emotions that the composer wanted to express. This, in turn, helps us better understand the emotions of other people and build stronger interpersonal relationships. As Ludwig van Beethoven said: “Music is a language that can speak to the heart without words.”
One of the most important skills we develop through learning music is the ability to listen. While learning to play an instrument or sing, we have to focus on the sounds, rhythm, and dynamics of the piece. This helps us be more attentive and present in relationships with other people.
Therefore, it is important to remember that learning music not only develops our musical skills, but also positively influences our interpersonal skills. I encourage everyone to explore the world of music and use its potential in developing our relationships with others.

2. Improving concentration and memory
Learning music requires focus and regular practice. By doing so, you train your concentration and memory, which can bring benefits not only during studying, but also in everyday life.
Contemporary research confirms that music can improve cognitive abilities, including concentration and memory. Professor Glenn Schellenberg from the University of Toronto conducted studies that showed that children learning to play a musical instrument had better results in verbal and spatial intelligence tests than their peers who did not learn music. Music engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously, which promotes the development of neurons and improvement of cognitive functions.
Similar conclusions were drawn by Dr. Nina Kraus from Northwestern University, who discovered that people who regularly listen to music have better auditory memory and a better ability to distinguish sounds. Music can help maintain attention and focus, which is crucial for improving concentration.
Music also has the ability to influence our emotions and mood, which can further support cognitive processes. Studies have shown that fast-paced and rhythmic music can stimulate the brain, increasing our energy and concentration. On the other hand, relaxing music, such as classical or ambient music, can help reduce stress and improve attention span.
Not only listening to music can improve our cognitive functions, but also playing music ourselves. Playing musical instruments requires focus, motor coordination, and memorizing sequences of sounds, which can be an excellent brain training. Learning music can develop our mathematical and logical abilities, as well as creativity and imagination.
Music is not just sounds, but also a brain workout that can bring many benefits. So start experimenting with different genres of music, play musical instruments, and let the sounds help you improve your concentration and memory.

3. Expression of Emotions and Creativity

Music has an extraordinary power to influence our emotions. Sounds, rhythms, and melodies can penetrate the deepest corners of our soul and evoke joy, sadness, excitement, or nostalgia within us. By learning music, we can learn to express our emotions in a more subtle and profound way, which can be extremely therapeutic and helpful in dealing with life difficulties.
Learning music can also stimulate our creativity and imagination. Composing our own pieces of music or improvising while playing an instrument is an excellent way to develop our artistic soul. Music gives us the opportunity to express ourselves in a unique and original way, which can be extremely satisfying and inspiring.
Learning music engages all of our senses. We hear sounds, feel the rhythm, experience emotions. When playing an instrument, we must focus on technique, coordinate movements, listen to ourselves and others. It is not only a mental workout but also a physical one. Music makes us more aware of ourselves and the world around us, leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves and others.

4. Improvement of Mathematical Skills
Learning music requires an understanding of rhythm, harmony, and melody, which can help in better understanding mathematics. Studies show that people who learn music achieve better results in mathematical tests.
Music and mathematics are two seemingly different areas that have a lot in common. Scientific studies confirm that learning music can significantly improve mathematical skills in children and adults.
One key connection between music and mathematics is rhythm. Mathematics is present in musical rhythm, which is based on regular repetitions and proportions. As Professor Gordon Shaw of the University of California says, “Music and mathematics have common roots in the brain.” Therefore, learning music through rhythmic exercises can help develop mathematical skills.
Studies by scientists at the University of Toronto have shown that children who learned to play a musical instrument achieved better results in mathematical tests than their peers who did not learn music. Professor Laurel Trainor, Director of the McMaster Institute for Music and the Mind, emphasizes that “learning music can influence brain development and improve mathematical skills.”
Learning music can also help develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Playing an instrument requires concentration, analysis, and quick decision-making – skills that are also important in mathematics. As Professor Ellen Winner of Harvard University says, “learning music can shape cognitive skills necessary for solving mathematical problems.”
Furthermore, learning music can foster creativity and imagination, which are also important in mathematics. A creative approach to solving mathematical problems can be the key to success in this area.
Therefore, it is worth encouraging children and adults to engage in music, not only for the enjoyment of playing or singing, but also for the benefits it can bring in developing mathematical skills. As Plato said, “Music is the mathematics of the soul” – so it makes sense to harness this magical power to improve our mathematical abilities.

5. Development of self-confidence and self-esteem

Overcoming personal barriers and facing challenges while learning music can contribute to an increase in self-confidence and belief in one’s abilities. It is an excellent way to develop self-esteem and build a positive self-image.
Learning music requires commitment, patience, and regular practice. Through this, students learn self-discipline, concentration, and perseverance – qualities necessary for success not only in music education but also in other areas of life.
Playing an instrument or singing requires us to open ourselves to new experiences and step out of our comfort zone. It is a great way to overcome our limitations and develop self-confidence. As Johann Wolfgang von Goethe said: “Music is the language that can speak to the soul.”
Music also allows us to express our emotions and feelings in a way that is sometimes difficult to describe in words. This helps us better understand ourselves and our needs, leading to an increase in self-esteem.
Scientific research confirms the positive impact of music on brain development and cognitive skills. Children learning music have better memory, concentration, and mathematical abilities. Therefore, it is worth encouraging the youngest to learn music to help them in their intellectual and emotional development.
It is also worth noting that music has a tremendous therapeutic power. It can help in coping with stress, anxiety, or depression. That is why more and more therapists use music in their work with patients to support their healing process and self-realization.
In conclusion, learning music can bring many benefits not only artistically but also personally. It develops self-confidence, self-esteem, cognitive, and emotional skills. Therefore, it is worth encouraging both children and adults to learn music to discover its magical power and introduce positive changes in their lives. As Friedrich Nietzsche said: “Without music, life would be a mistake.”