Benefits of Playing an Instrument

There are positive benefits to playing an instrument

I began playing the piano at the age of four and have been a vocalist for decades. I’ve seen the positive benefits to both of these through the years.

Whether I’m stressed, depressed, happy or biding time I turn to music.

So what are some of the benefits of playing an instrument?

Music teaches discipline

1. Reduces stress—stress is bad for our physical, mental and emotional health. However playing an instrument helps us to reduce stress.

2. Keeps mind sharper—Research by the American Psychological Association has proven that if an individual begins playing an instrument as a child, that individuals memory will remain sharper as s/he ages to an individual that did not play an instrument as a child.

3. Decrease blood pressure and heart rate—playing an instrument is proven to reduce our heart rate and decrease the blood pressure while playing.

4. Reduce anxiety and depression—music can alter a mood and help reduce anxiety and depression.

Music reduces stress, anxiety and depression

5. Helps boost our immune system–Suzanne Hanser, chair of the music therapy department at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, said There is also increasing evidence that making music enhances the immunological response, which enables us to fight viruses.

6. Unlock Memories—music can unlock memories and take us back to a time and place when we played, sung or listened to a specific piece of music.

7. Increase auditory memory—research has found that musicians can make out speech or a specific sounds over other noise better than non-musicians.

8. Teaches discipline—practicing takes time and discipline

9. Reduces stage fright—performing takes away stage fright {most times} and helps an individual feel more comfortable in front of a group and even socializing with others

In what ways has playing an instrument been a benefit to your health and life?

*Pictures courtesy of Pixabay