5 Ways Music Lessons Set Your Child Up for Future Success
January 21st, 2025
Music lessons are more than just a fun extracurricular activity; they stand out as one of the most powerful tools for fostering future success. From cognitive benefits to emotional growth, here are five key ways music lessons can help shape your child’s future.
5 Ways Music Lessons Set Your Child Up for Future Success
1. Boost Cognitive Development
2. Improve Academic Performance
3. Develop Discipline and Time Management Skills
4. Teach Social Skills and Teamwork
5. Promote Mental and Physical Wellness
1. Music Lessons Boost Cognitive Development
Studies consistently show that learning music improves brain function, particularly in areas like memory, attention, and problem-solving. Children who take music lessons often perform better in subjects like math and reading, as the skills they develop through music such as pattern recognition and auditory discrimination are transferable to other areas of learning. The benefits extend to verbal memory, reading ability, and executive functions, all of which are enhanced through music lessons.
2. Music Improves Academic Performance
Younger children aren’t the only ones who benefit from the boost in cognitive development. High school students involved in music programs score higher on standardized tests, particularly in math and reading. Musical training can improve mathematical skills due to the shared neural pathways between music and math processing.
3. Music Develops Discipline and Time Management Skills
Mastering an instrument requires dedication and practice. Children learn that success doesn’t come overnight it’s the result of consistent effort and focus. As they balance music practice with schoolwork and extracurricular activities, they also develop important skills like time management, self-motivation, and goal-setting. The Suzuki Education method is based on the philosophy that all children are born with a high potential for learning. If given the opportunity and a proper environment, any child can learn to play a musical instrument.
4. Music Teaches Social Skills and Teamwork
Many music lessons involve group activities such as ensembles, choirs , or recitals, where children learn to collaborate and communicate effectively. Working together with others teaches them the importance of listening, cooperation, and compromise, skills that are crucial for forming strong relationships and working well in team settings later in life. Group music classes have been shown to improve children's language skills and executive functions, enhancing their ability to work within a team and communicate effectively.
From our Early Childhood Music and Movement Classes and Guitar and Ukulele Group Classes that emphasize group learning, and Chamber Music and Jazz Combos that foster collaboration with fellow musicians, MIC offers a diverse range of group music classes for everyone.
5. Music Promotes Mental and Physical Wellness
Music contributes to overall well-being. Playing an instrument or singing can reduce stress, improve concentration, and enhance mood. Music can help children manage anxiety and feel more connected to their emotions, promoting mental health and a positive outlook on life. Music has been shown to significantly aid in cognitive and emotional development , while also fostering physical wellness through improved brain function and mental clarity.
Whether it's a group class they look forward to that lifts their mood or their private lessons that provide them an escape, music provides a supportive environment for children to process their emotions and reduce stress.
At MIC, students also have access to programs like Alexander Technique for Musicians, that focus on physical well-being and improve your awareness, coordination, and skills applied to your instrument and to your life.
More Than Just Music Lessons
Learning to play an instrument or engaging with music offers a host of cognitive, social, and emotional benefits that last a lifetime. If you’re considering enrolling your child in music lessons, you are investing in their overall development and lifelong success.
Set Them Up for Success with mic
The Music Institute of Chicago empowers music makers of every age and skill level. Take the next step by filling out our inquiry form. Our dedicated team will connect you with a campus director for a personalized placement meeting. Together, we'll find the perfect program to match your goals and aspirations.