Are there really THAT many benefits to learning an instrument? Spoiler: yes.
- Scarlett Neville
- May 20
- 3 min read
Hi everyone! Scarlett here.
Any time someone tells me they wish they had learnt an instrument, or kept up their lessons as a child, I tell them: ‘it’s never too late!’ Because of one simple fact – it’s worth it.
I could probably write a novel on this subject but for the purposes of this blog, here are my top 10 ways that learning an instrument can benefit both adults and children, based on the evidence and on my own experience as a former piano pupil and now teacher. Speaking of, as one half of a business called Viva Piano, you’ll forgive me if I speak particularly highly of one instrument.
Brainpower
Playing an instrument stimulates many areas of the brain at once, which can help to improve problem-solving skills, decision making and planning abilities, memory and much more, all contributing to a healthier brain.
These are life-long benefits to children, but studies have shown that even taking lessons in your 60s or older can improve brain and memory health.
In essence, it’s a fantastic workout for the brain!
More creativity
This workout also stimulates areas of the brain associated with imagination. I spent hours sat at my piano as a child composing little songs. While they were probably terrible, my young mind was bursting with creativity and self-expression, impacting lots of other areas of my life.
Side note, one of the best things about a piano – you can sing and play at the same time!
A touch of discipline
Let’s be frank, learning an instrument is hard work. It takes time, repetition, consistent practise, but I can’t think of a better way to teach children that sometimes a little bit of discipline has the most wonderful rewards.
Patience!
This one hits home for me. I am not by nature a patient person, and I hate getting things wrong. But no one sits down at a piano for the first time and knows how to play. Learning an instrument fosters perseverance and grit, which are valuable qualities for people of all ages and stages.
The social side
Music brings people together, whether you’re playing for your family at Christmas, dancing at a wedding, or gathered round a busker on the street. Learning an instrument could lead you to join an orchestra or a band, or to simply making friends with other musicians. Children especially form bonds when learning together. This is one of the reasons Laura and I founded Viva Piano – to provide a sociable environment for learning music.
More confidence
Mastering any new skill provides a sense of achievement and the confidence to persevere. At Viva Piano, we also encourage self-expression and performance, which positively impacts a child’s self-esteem. I firmly believe my confidence as an adult comes from being comfortable performing as a child.
Improved mental health
Studies show that learning an instrument benefits our mental health, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. It’s also an alternative to a screen, which may appeal to some parents.
Physical impact
Learning an instrument can improve hand-eye coordination, posture and motor skills. It can also strengthen the muscles in our fingers, arms and back. I have rheumatoid arthritis in my hands – my piano is my physio!
A career, perhaps?
This is a bit niche, but worth mentioning! Very talented musicians may have the opportunity to turn their passion into a profession.
Many many moments of joy
It’s just a fact – music makes your heart full. And making your own? Doesn’t get any better than that.
