In previous generations, music education was included as a matter of course in the public school system at least through elementary levels. Today, with teachers increasingly pressed for time, so-called “elective” classes like music and art are disappearing in favor of the “required” classes like reading, math, and computer skills. It is expected that students try music as an extracurricular activity paid for by the parents after school if they want music.

However, evidence suggests that children who are allowed to get at least a basic education in the arts, including music, have higher self-esteem, better memory, increased ability to express oneself, a greater ability to work with others and an understanding of teamwork, and even better academic performance. More than that, though, this type of “education” benefits adults, too, even if they don’t start until later in life. Music education is comprised of any musically related class or lesson.

Do you or your child want to take a class or private lessons with a teacher on your own? Oftentimes, elementary schools already have a music teacher who takes a class and teaches them the basics of music including music pitches, a little music history, and singing some new songs by reading notes. As the child keeps growing musically each year in school, they can decide if they want to take private or class lessons to explore music further.

When students learn music, there can be some work involved but it also can be pleasurable too. Students may learn new techniques from music and apply these to other areas of interest. Some advantages may be that students could gain greater social interaction, build better esteem, and build on their musical skills.

Everyone has a unique learning style when it comes to music, so some may learn faster than others. It is still satisfying to learn an instrument or take voice lessons because you will notice progress in time. You mental process gets a good workout and it helps with reasoning and cognition with adults or young children.

For example, if a student works hard to master the basics of playing the violin and then actually begins to play first simple tunes and then more and more complex ones which in turn leads to a sense of accomplishment and pride. So this success can lead to a greater sense of self-esteem, which in turn can positively affect how the rest of one’s life goes. Accomplishing in this area can give you the confidence you need to reach other goals in life, too.

Music is an excellent medium for people to convey moods and thoughts through sound. Through the performing of instruments and the use of the voice, people can bring out the happiest or darkest emotions in an expressive manner. Bring music into one’s life is a wonderful way to amuse and bring joy to peoples’ lives in a home or at a performance gathering.

Joining with people regularly who have a passion for the same things you do (in this case, music) can increase your confidence, improve social skills, and make you feel welcome and part of a group instead of isolated. Studies have shown that people who can regularly connect with like-minded people live longer, and are healthier and happier. This also helps you learn how to cooperate with others in achieving a common goal.