We all know that learning to play music can be a fun, challenging, and often rewarding experience, especially for children. Yet, what most people never realize is how much of an integral part music can play in shaping not only a child’s social skills, but also their developmental progress, intelligence, and even success later in life. Studies have shown, time and time again, that children who begin learning music at an early age tend to excel in school, and generally have bright futures ahead of them as they progress through their childhood years.
Consider these facts:
• Recent data has shown that high earnings are not only associated with people who have good technical skills, but also with those who possess a mastery of the arts and humanities as well.
• Students who participated in band and orchestral activities reported the lowest lifetime use of illegal substances.
• In a recent Northwestern University study, researchers found that participants who had four to 14 years of musical study had faster responses to speech sound than those who had no training – even though no one in the group had played an instrument for about 40 years.
• Those who play music tend to work well in team situations, and learn discipline from practicing regimens – a trait most Fortune 500 CEOs tend to look for in an employee
• High school students who play music tend to score higher on standardized tests such as the SAT, regardless of socioeconomic level.
• In a 2004 Stanford research study, children with music training had significantly better verbal memory than those without such training, and the longer the training, the better the verbal memory.
Do these facts hold true for every child who studies music? Of course not, but the more advantages we can give our children early in life, the greater chance they have to succeed later on.
When selecting a music school for your child, there are certain key factors you should take into consideration. Things to look for are: quality of instructors, variety of teaching methods and programs, a professional teaching environment, and performance opportunities. These items, coupled with a caring and committed instructor, will ensure that your child has the best possible learning experience, and will be able to enjoy playing music for years to come.
West Coast Music Academy is located on Valley Center Drive between the Cross Valley Connector and Soledad Canyon, across from Fun ‘n Fit Gymnastics and next to Bicycle John’s. Call us today at 661-253-9262 to schedule your first lesson!