Benefits of Music
Taking part in musical activities brings huge benefits - from improving IQ to increasing self esteem, building team spirit to developing imagination. Every musician has their own experience of the positive effects music has for them, but if you need some more convincing, here are some interesting resources and research findings.
- Saxophonist Jess Gillam, Ulverston
Helpful Resources
What the government says:
The Department for Education carried out a review of research into the benefits of music in 2011 - The Importance of Music: A National Plan for Music Education. Here are just some of the reasons why they believe music is important:
Ofsted say that children’s involvement in music engages and re-engages pupils, increasing their self esteem, and maximising their progress in education and not just in music
Research has shown a direct link between music and improved reading ability in children
Evidence suggests a link between mathematics and music and a connection between music and increased scores in IQ. Music can have a positive impact on personal and social development, including increased self reliance, confidence, self-esteem, sense of achievement and ability to relate to others
Participating in music groups and needing to work together towards a common goal, for example school bands, develops discipline, teamwork, cooperation, self-confidence, responsibility and social skills
Ofsted say that children’s involvement in music engages and re-engages pupils, increasing their self esteem, and maximising their progress in education and not just in music
Research has shown a direct link between music and improved reading ability in children
Evidence suggests a link between mathematics and music and a connection between music and increased scores in IQ. Music can have a positive impact on personal and social development, including increased self reliance, confidence, self-esteem, sense of achievement and ability to relate to others
Participating in music groups and needing to work together towards a common goal, for example school bands, develops discipline, teamwork, cooperation, self-confidence, responsibility and social skills
How playing an instrument benefits your brain
When you listen to music, multiple areas of your brain become engaged and active. But when you actually play an instrument, that activity becomes more like a full-body brain workout. What's going on?
Educator Anita Collins explains the fireworks that go off in musicians' brains when they play and examines some of the long-term positive effects of this mental workout.
Music Mark #10Things
10 things Schools Should Know About Music was originally published by Music Mark five years ago and updated last year with the help of Birmingham City University. Working with BBC Bring the Noise they have relaunched the booklet alongside a film and poster.
