Document Type

Honors Thesis

Publication Date

5-2012

Abstract

Music is an integral part of our lives. There are countless examples of how learning music affects intelligence in students, but that is not music’s only benefit. Music is an academic discipline available in schools in which students’ simultaneously develop cognitive abilities, physical abilities, and social skills. This is particularly evident in the instrumental music classroom.

Through the studying of instrumental music and playing in ensembles, students learn countless lifelong skills that help them develop into intelligent, creative leaders. The cognitive abilities of the students grow and expand the longer they study music. Furthermore, it has been proven that their test scores improve in the math and sciences. Through reading music, students learn a new language that is significantly more complex than any other written language. They also improve their physical motor skills by honing their abilities at a piano or a variety of other instruments. Students learn leadership, organization, dedication, and teamwork, and also develop an interactive awareness of what is occurring around them through ensemble playing.

All objective evidence points to the importance of instrumental music education in the schools. The minimizing of music takes away an important tool in achieving students’ success as adults. The importance of instrumental music education needs to be recognized so that programs are supported and the positive effects upon students will not be lost.

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