What really are the reasons for studying music? Is it a worthwhile subject because students love music or even because they hate it? Is the study of music worthwhile simply to acquire a level of appreciation for art? The conclusion researchers come up with again and again is this: studying music is not only fun for students, but beneficial for their brains.
Research has shown that students who learn to sing or play an instrument have better problem solving skills, score better on verbal and spatial reasoning tests, score better on standardized tests, have better communication and team building skills, are better able to think critically, have increased self-esteem, are more likely to persevere in adversity, can better deal with ambiguity, and are more likely to celebrate and appreciate other cultures.
Whoa! Music can do all that? Actually, yes. The synapses or connections that are established within the brain grow stronger with use and weaker when idle. Brain scans taken of musicians during musical performances show that virtually the entire cerebral cortex is active at that time. Their brains are interpreting complex symbols and making extremely fine muscle adjustments in the fingers, voice, arms, and mouth, to name a few.
There's more. When we know the language of music, we are able to use it and respond to it globally; an average human being can make a worldwide impact with music. A composer's tune can be played or sung anywhere people can read music. Since the language is universal, communication is not hindered, and we can absorb and experience other cultures readily.
I agree with Mike Huckabee when he said, "Ask a CEO what they are looking for in an employee, and they say they need people who understand teamwork, people who are disciplined, people who understand the big picture. You know what they need? They need musicians."
Let us not forget that music is a vehicle for glorifying and praising God. Our Heavenly Father commands us to "Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord" Ephesians 5:19. From David's soothing harp melodies to the spectacular heavenly choir praising God and saying "Peace on Earth" at Christ's birth, we know that our Creator values music's expression too. That may be the very best reason of all to study music: God loves it!