Training on a Musical Instrument Promotes Cognitive Development

Every person on Earth has their own way of coping with the difficulties associated with life. As people combat daily life, many find music to be beneficial to their health. Studies have shown that music “can provide solace, release, strong sensations, and more” (Dean). There are certain people who are more affected by such stimulation and are more susceptible to the effects of music. These affects not only occur physically, but mentally as well. It was also discovered that “those who had extra-curricular music classes, developed higher verbal IQ, and visual abilities, in comparison to those with no musical training” (Forgeard). The effect of music on an individual is influenced by their personality and mood and can be influential to the way they feel during various situations.

Through multiple studies, it has been proposed that training on a musical instrument promotes cognitive development, which greatly affects learning. Although alternative causes for these learning advantages have been discussed, it is believed that three or more years of musical training greatly affects a child’s ability to learn and retain information. As scientists studied an experiment performed by JW Flohr, it was discovered that “five year-olds who received twelve weeks of music instruction improved significantly more than control children in tonal and rhythmic auditory discrimination abilities” (Forgeard). Through musical experiments, it was strongly suggested that music can stimulate a child’s senses.

Music and words are both read from left to right. By reading music and utilizing body parts at the same time, there is cognitive stimulation. It was studied and believed that students with musical training had a higher verbal IQ than students that...

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