Emotional & Behavioural Benefits of Playing an Instrument

Yesterday, I posted about the physical benefits learning a musical instrument can have on your brain. Today, I would like to discuss the other side of the coin: the emotion and behavioural benefits. 

I stumbled across this very interesting article by Amy Ellis Nutt earlier in the year (read it here). It offers a brief summary of an intensive study that was published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychology

232 healthy children aged between 6 and 18 years old underwent MRI scanning and behavioural testing every 2 years on 3 separate occasions. The study found that there was a direct relationship between the amount of music training completed and attention span, anxiety management and emotional control. Those who studied an instrument for a longer period of time showed greater improvements in all three areas. 

As the scientific studies continue, it seems the benefits of learning an instrument are endless!

Kathryn Raats

Kathryn is the Founding Director of West Coast Music School

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10 Reasons Why Children Should Learn an Instrument

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How Playing an Instrument can Benefit Your Brain