Music Education Stimulates the Mind and Forms Good Character
By Lita Zagala
As a budding music teacher many years ago, I’ve heard my mentors say time and again that music sharpens the mind. Not knowing exactly what it meant, I embraced that statement as a matter of faith in the wisdom of learned men. Since then, many renowned scholars and researchers have submitted studies showing that early music education enhances development of the left side of the brain that’s involved in processing language and spatial reasoning.
Their studies indicate that music stimulates brain development, and wires its circuits and helps imprint information on a child’s mind. Development in this area of the brain enhances one’s ability to visualize abstract elements, the sort of thinking process so essential in solving mathematical problems. As a result, a child‘s mind forms in such a way that helps him approach other problems in a logical manner.
Music is an art. Art creates something beautiful. It never ceases to amaze me how Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin and the other great composers could have written those masterpieces. Like their counterparts in the other art forms, a creative mind was the only thing working for them coupled with training and a proper environment. Obviously, only a few can be a Bach or a Michelangelo, but many can develop degrees of creativity. Children who learn art also learn how to think creatively. When confronted with life problems, a creative mind puts away obsolete and pre-conceived notions, thinks of new ideas, and finds more alternatives. They are in a better position to find better solutions.
Higher grades in school, better understanding of math and a logical mind are important practical benefits derived from early music education.
But to me, what tops them all is good character formation. Good character is what makes good human beings. Music lessons and daily practice, as well as exposure to festivals and competitions, compel a child to form habits, attitudes and traits that are so important in life. Self-discipline, patience, persistence, honesty, respect for others, and humility are just a few attributes that a child acquires as he goes through his music education. A parent who provides for early music education increases the likelihood that his child will be a better human being. Could there be any better reason for early music education than this?
I consider myself very lucky and blessed that Fate has taken me to the path towards teaching piano music and early childhood education. It has given me the opportunity to work with a lot of children and parents and to learn from them. Nothing gives me greater joy than to see children grow nicely to become good and responsible adults.
