Music lessons are one of the most enriching activities available for developing minds, and the benefits go well beyond learning to play an instrument. Music education promotes excellence in academic subjects, even if they have nothing in common with music on the surface. In fact, many of the skills and attributes kids develop while practicing their craft are also necessary to their other studies. 

Here is a brief look at how music lessons and general academics intertwine: 

1. Provide Discipline: Learning music requires a high level of discipline. Many instruments, to name two which are the most popular, such as the piano and violin, have steep learning curves. In the case of the piano it means learning the correct seating position and how to curve one’s fingers in order to produce the proper sound and acquire additional techniques.  As far as the violin is concerned from the beginning, it means learning to hold the instrument and bow correctly as a prelude to producing a good tone, playing in tune, and building other techniques.  To excel, students need the cultivation of a learning environment that fosters patience, concentration, and a strict adherence to a practice regimen—all of which contribute immensely to achieving success in their academic endeavors. 
2. Help With Concentration: Enhanced discipline and commitment go hand in hand with building concentration and listening skills, necessary keys to both musical  and academic success. Building up skills in learning to play an instrument takes hours, months, and years depending on the individual goals. Individual music lessons should take place in a positive learning environment that hinges on extended periods of highly focused attention and    praise. Group lessons teach students to handle all this while boosting social skills and fostering teamwork along the way.  
3. Improve Memory & Pattern Recognition: It's no secret that music and math are deeply connected. Learning to focus on music reading with rhythms, melodies, scales, arpeggios, and chords help growing minds learn how to recognize patterns, create fractions, and generally improve memory. The cultivation of short-term and long-term memory benefits, apply to other academic areas as well, promoting STEAM education which combines science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics so necessary in today’s environment. 

All these benefits expand even further once students are ready to tackle more complex lessons in music theory. Learning to play an instrument is an ever-evolving education that complements other academic pursuits. The Suzuki Music School of Maryland in Columbia has been helping kids realize their potential for almost 30 years, and they have the tools necessary to guide students of all skill levels. Visit them online to learn more about their music education programs, and call (410) 964-1983 to register today.