Did you grow up in a house filled with music? If you did, there’s a chance music is something that has stayed with you all your life, helping you get through life’s tough times and even helping you be a smarter person. That’s right! Some recent studies have shown that learning music at an early age develops the part of the brain linked with language processing. It also helps kids become more articulate and social around others, according to a story by PBS. It seems that the brains of musicians just work harder and process more information, the story says. This leads to a higher overall IQ for those who are exposed to music from a young age. Not too bad, is it?
The National Association for Music Education agrees. Not only does musical training lead to improved coordination, but it also helps kids develop emotionally, gives them a true sense of achievement and helps them more easily memorize things. The result? Higher SAT scores, according to the NAFME.
As we enter a new era of work, a musical background will come in handy. More and more, people are having to tap into their creative skills to produce work that’s relevant to the 21st Century economy, such as writing, web design, entrepreneurship and other positions that require quick, outside-of-the-box thinking. Having a foundation of a musical background better prepares children for this new economy and the challenges it brings.
We’ve all seen the decline in music education programs as well as other fine arts within the public school system across America. But without music and arts, where are the future’s great creative minds going to come from? Science, math and technology are very valuable fields of study, but the world needs artists, too. Think of your favorite people from history. There’s probably more than a few singers, guitarists, painters, writers and even actors on that list. That’s why it’s critical that we keep music in our schools. Help shape the next generation by supporting the musical and performing arts in any way you can.