Almost everybody listens to music. Some play music in the background while they work, or use it to motivate them through their gym workout. Yet, opinions divide when it comes to music education. While some value music as a part of the school curriculum, others see it as a waste of time. They believe that the time could be better spent on literacy and numeracy skills.
So, what is everyone saying about music? Is it unnecessary, or should we continue to teach music in schools?
In this blog, we separate the fact from the fiction about the benefits of music in education.
Music makes children smarter
What people say:
Children who learn music enjoy improved academic performance
The theory:
Music enhances numeracy and literacy skills. For example, studying note values provides the perfect opportunity to discuss maths skills. This includes counting, addition, division, fractions, and so much more.
Moreover, music terms are often in Italian. This creates the opportunity to discuss word origins. It could even form the basis for learning another language.
Our verdict:
We’re on the fence. Music might not make children smarter, but we can use it reinforce learning points.
What’s more, music is fun, creative, and easy to make cross-curricular. As a result, we can support children’s learning retention. This means they can better recall key facts when assessed. We believe music can improve exam results, when part of a cross-curricular syllabus.
Music improves children’s behaviour
What people say:
Music makes children behave better
The theory:
It takes considerable discipline to learn an instrument. This learned form of control can be practiced and applied to concentration. Moreover, many agree that children find music lessons enjoyable. It is human nature to pour effort into the things we like doing. Music is also used as an incentive for good behaviour. For example, children earn extended time in the music room for their efforts.
Our verdict:
Yes. Music allows children to practice transferable skills in a fun, creative way. It is also a fantastic way to learn in a safe and relaxed environment.
Music creates a sense of community
What people say:
Music lessons create a greater sense of collegial spirit and togetherness
The theory:
Music is a very social activity. One practises an instrument independently, usually with the aim to perform with others. Getting involved in a choir, music club, or band requires team work. These sessions give children the chance to make friends, and achieve collective goals… all while learning music or a musical instrument!
Our verdict:
Yes, yes, yes! It’s famously accepted within the industry that music often creates lifelong friendships. Headteacher, Bob Pletka, once stated, “The quality of the relationships that students have in class with their peers and teachers is important to their success in school.”
Music improves your mental health and emotional wellbeing
What people say:
Children who study music enjoy improved wellbeing
The theory:
A UK government study indicated that 94% of children enjoyed improved wellbeing for having studied music. Music reduces stress and anxiety by raising the levels of dopamine in the brain. Remember when Italians were singing together from their balconies during the pandemic?
Our verdict:
Absolutely true! There is a music therapy is used as treatment for a variety of mental and psychological disorders… it works!
Music makes you more confident
What people say:
Learning and performing music improves children’s confidence
The theory:
Given that music:
- Helps children achieve more academically (so are more likely to receive praise)
- Provides a creative and safe space for children to make friends
- Improves children’s emotional wellbeing
- And, supports them in developing discipline (so are less likely to misbehave)
It’s no surprise that children enjoy a confidence boost when learning and performing music.
Our verdict:
True! While children may still feel shy or embarrassed to perform, their overall confidence gets a big boost when they participate in music activities. In fact a government study showed that 96.7% of children felt more confident for having music lessons.
So, there you have it.
Still not sure that music can benefit your pupils?
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