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Music and the Young Brain
By Administrator - Saturday, December 05, 2009

Note: This article was written by guest author Carolyn Studer. If you are interested in writing an article, email us at info@findmymusicteacher.com. For more information on Carolyn Studer, visit www.carolynstuder.com.

The neurologist and musicologist, Dr. Oliver Sacks, has concluded from his scientific studies that music is just as important to the young brain as reading, writing, and math and should be a part of a child's formal education.

Studies have shown that music is good for children because music-making involves so many different parts of our brains. To play an instrument, children must develop good motor skills as well as the ability to think ahead, musically, while listening to, playing and moving to the music that's in front of them. Considering the complexities of music, it is no wonder that studies are showing a dramatic difference in test scores between those with musical training and those without it. Music consultant Cynthia Ensign Baney, in her article, "Music and the Brain," cites research showing that musically-trained students score a whopping 47% higher on SAT tests, for example, than those who have never studied music.

It doesn't necessarily follow, however, that parents need to give their child piano lessons when their child is only 3 or 4. According to Dr. Sacks, music lessons have to be rigorous enough to positively affect the brain. Baney's research suggests that the stressfulness resulting from introducing young children to music lessons too early can far outweigh the benefits. So, unless a child is ready for formal lessons, it's best to wait. "I can't even get my daughter to clean her room, let alone practice!" a mother told me this week.

The first three years of a child's life are crucial years, however, in terms of music development. Research shows that parents can best nurture their young children musically by giving them opportunities to participate in singing, dancing (creative movement), listening, and playing instruments. "In combination," writes Baney, "these skills comprise 'active music making,' the ultimate music experience for children."

Parents can prepare their children for lessons during these early years by introducing a variety of music to their children, beginning with the classics; moving with them to the beat of the music; introducing them to rhythm instruments such as sticks and tambourines; and singing with them.

"Children today need significant adults in their lives to provide them with the opportunities to experience music firsthand," says Baney. "Our society has become so busy and entertainment-driven that many children are deprived of the simple joy of singing."

To read Music Consultant Cynthia Ensign Baney's full article, "Music and the Brain," see www.km-ajoyfulnoise.com.