The Value of Music Study

I have been a life-long lover of the arts, and especially music. I recently came across some thoughts about the value of the study of music in schools, and for that matter, throughout life. Much of what follows here is a summation of that article (I have no references to provide, but will be happy to provide interested readers with a copy of the article.)

Although the following list is certainly not exhaustive, it begins to give us a picture of the value of music education. Before we get to those benefits, however, let me assuage a couple of fears or protests. First of all, although some students are more 'musically-inclined' than others, a general music education is important for all people, no matter the age. I can hear someone say, "But I am not interested in music. Why should I have to study it?" To that I could answer, "I am not interested in Biology, but it is important that I learn the basic concepts of science."

In a time when school boards everywhere are cutting funding for arts education and programs, it is important that constituents speak out in favor of music, dance, graphic arts and drama.

So, here are the four benefits of the study of music in school.

1. The study of music helps students achieve success in school. Studies have consistently shown that students who include music study, either performance or appreciation, perform better on the standardized SAT. In addition, those who study music have higher levels of self-esteem and creativity.
2. The study of music helps students develop intelligence. Brain function has been shown to increase with music training. In fact, one study suggests that music is more effective than computer training for enhancing abstract reasoning skills.
3. The study of music helps students achieve success in society. The US Department of Education suggests that college bound students study music as a part of their preparation for higher education. Not only that, many engineers and designers working in Silicone Valley are practicing musicians.
4. The study of music helps students achieve success in life. Music trains the individual to communicate and cooperate with a group. These are crucial skills in the 21st Century world. Discipline is required to be even a minimally competent musician. This trait is essential in the world of work and life.

Music is too important to neglect in our schools, or in our own lives. In a future entry I will develop this thought further to discuss how music groups in school are at least as valuable as sports teams.