When we look at modern day scholars, we find evidence linking music study with intelligence. It is widely known, for example, that Einstein had a deep love for music. His wife, Elsa writes:
“As a little girl, I fell in love with Albert because he played Mozart so beautifully on the violin. He also plays the piano. Music helps him when he is thinking about his theories. He goes to his study, comes back, strikes a few chords on the piano, jots something down, returns to his study.”
Einstein claimed that music helped him with his work as a physicist. Can studying music help increase your I.Q.? I don't know about that but as a longtime advocate of music education, Here are my top 7 reasons why every child should learn an instrument:
1. In private music lessons, children learn at their own pace, often outside of what is considered “normal” for their age. Gifted and special needs children thrive in this environment, a place where there is no “glass ceiling” on learning.
2. Research indicates that music lessons change the course of brain development and may influence children's success in other, non-musical tasks. Music study is linked to spatial-temporal reasoning and requires you to learn fractions and ratios. Both of these skills are needed for understanding math and science.
3. Music reduces stress. Studies show that children who play a musical instrument have more positive attitudes and are less intimidated by new challenges.
4. Learning a musical instrument enhances creativity. Students learn how to improvise, think quickly and think outside of the box. These skills are needed in everyday situations including the professional environment.
5. Playing an instrument improves hand, eye coordination. Small motor skills are involved in playing and reading notes.
6. Playing an instrument boosts confidence and self-esteem. Children set a goal when learning a piece and gain a sense of accomplishment when they perform.
7. Music lessons encourage social skills and self-expression. Music brings kids into a large community of children with similar interests. This can be very important for kids who have a hard time feeling accepted.