FEATURE: MUSIC & THE PERFORMING ARTS


ramifications for a child’s social and emotional development, as well as literacy, numeracy, physical development, and motor coordination. Whilst traditional tasks of reading and writing are of course still key, the benefits of music are clear. In fact, neuroimaging studies published in


Frontiers in Neuroscience in 2020 evidence the physical changes in brain structure and function when learning music skills at a young age. Even during short periods of learning music, blood flow increases in the left side of the brain which is thought to improve our language processing ability. Whilst the effects of music have always been


powerful, only now do we know that music contributes significantly to children’s development, helping the mind and body work together. Exposing children to music during early development helps them learn the sounds and meanings of words and strengthens memory and cognitive skills.


A way to express ourselves from a young age Whilst the effects of music on cognitive development are evident, teaching musical skills also helps enormously with confidence and self- expression. Advantages for children include a sense of achievement, an increase in self-esteem, as well as learning traits such as persistence and self-discipline when required to overcome frustrations. Music empowers young children, helping to


not only reduce stress levels but stimulates brain chemicals such as dopamine and oxytocin. When these are released, it’s suggested by UNICEF that children are encouraged to empathise and build trust with others, or share toys, for example. By mastering technical skills at a young age


(such as composing songs), children’s concentration levels and productivity are boosted. And because of the creativity and skills required to learn music, and not forgetting the fun involved, children’s’ confidence and self- expression increases too.


The benefits for adolescents It’s clear that music is a key part of a wholesome education for children it also offers immense benefits to adolescents. From providing opportunities for teens’ engagement as performers, composers, and intelligent listeners, to providing a sense of belonging, music can benefit the lives of adolescents in many ways. A study by the NAMM Foundation reveals that


adolescents value learning and playing music as a central aspect of their identities. From an emotional perspective, it also helps control emotions and cope with difficult situations such as peer pressure, pressures of study and family, or the dynamics of friendships and social life. The study also reveals that adolescents want more variety and options for making music,


including the expansion to instruments and technology. As such, it is also essential to ensure music education is available to adolescents, as well as younger children.


Inspiring a generation Globally, the music education industry is highly fragmented. Parents face multiple issues such as the availability of good tutors, engaging class experiences, and the logistics of supporting an offline class – not to mention the cost of supplying the instrument itself. This is why independent school programmes have become so vitally important to bridging the music skills gap. The benefits of music can be experienced in


many forms and are essential for a children’s education. It is important that children are exposed to skills such as learning music at an early age; not only could it make them assets in the workplace, but it can also aid their development as they continue to make their way through formal education and provide an outlet for creative expression. Our focus at Byju’s FutureSchool is to inspire


children to create versus consume. Music fits right at the centre of that mission. We believe music and the arts are as critical for a child’s development as learning STEM and want every child to have access to the best music teachers in the world through technology.


You can find out more here: uhttps://www.byjusfutureschool.com/


November 2021


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