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Would it surprise you to know that the piano is one of the most popular choices for Americans learning to play an instrument?
In fact, over 21 million people in the U.S. play the recognizable black and white keys.
There are many reasons why people want to learn to play piano. Some adults want to make up for not being able to learn as a child, while others want their children to pursue music. Learning piano takes time, effort, and lots of practice.
If you are considering enrolling your child or yourself in lessons so you can start playing the piano, but are on the fence because of the commitment level it takes, continue reading. This short guide to the benefits you can gain while learning this instrument can help you decide.
Boost Memory
As you begin to learn a new instrument, the grey matter in your brain begins to increase in volume. The grey matter affects movement, emotions, and memory. The increase of grey matter can lead to a connection between the different areas of the nervous system.
A lower functioning ability to use short and long-term memory has been shown to affect reading skills. As you learn an instrument, your brain becomes familiar with seeing patterns and recognizing them faster. This can directly translate to learning reading patterns.
Stimulate Brain Function
When you play a musical instrument, you are utilizing both the right side and left side of the brain. The right side works with melody and creativity, while the left side works with rhythm and reading the patterns.
As you learn and play the piano, your visual, audio, and motor cortices are all used at once, which works out or stretches your brain capacity. Just as lifting weights and exercising strengthens your muscles, so the synapses of the brain being used more grows their ability to function.
Increased Emotional Well-Being
Learning to play an instrument has been linked to mental health improvements. As you play, your body releases endorphins, which are the happy mood hormones. This can lead to reduced blood pressure while you play as well.
The release of mood-changing hormones and a shutting down of the body’s stress response can have a high effect on feelings of depression and loneliness.
Learn From Anywhere
An unknown benefit to learning to play the piano is the ability to learn it from anywhere. Years ago, one would have to employ a teacher to come directly to the home or you would go to their home. Now, group studios and online lessons prevail.
For those with anxiety about playing in front of others, companies that offer top-rated piano lessons streamed directly into your home have opened the door to new opportunities.
Learn to Play Piano for the Brain and Soul
As you or your child learn to play piano, you will profit from more than just hearing beautiful music daily. Enjoying the multitude of mental and emotional benefits can make it easier to want to “tickle the ivories” and master the instrument.
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