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If you thought the applause at the piano recital was the reward for all those hours your child spent practicing, you’re in for an encore performance. The benefits your child will enjoy as a result of her music education may enrich her life for years to come. While it is argued that music lessons help students to master mathematics (all musical composition can be represented with mathematical equations), recent studies have shown that it has little impact on math scores. However, the aptitude required to read and play music is also required to solve math problems. So when a child diligently pursues one activity, she may often find success in the other, because she approaches the activity the same way. Music education is, however, a process that requires dedication, patience and discipline, all characteristics we want to instill in our children. Experts say that children who develop these characteristics are more likely to score higher academically and become leaders in their schools and their communities.  Cameron Tong (camerontong.com) says that music lessons are an appealing creative outlet for kids. Tong, who offers lessons from his Irvine studio, adds that benefits include aesthetic awareness, and increased dexterity and coordination. A UC Irvine graduate with a master of fine arts in piano performance, Tong says that spatial cognition is developed through music and helps with understanding ratios and fractions. “Perhaps, more importantly, he says, “I find the notion of delayed gratification in the preparation of a piece for performance an invaluable lesson for kids in today’s frenetic, results-oriented society.” Scientifically and socially, a music-filled life can benefit your child in many ways. Fine motor skills are often improved by playing a musical instrument. It takes small muscle groups, for example, to play the piano and the flute. Large muscle groups are honed when a child is involved in dance. Listening skills, as well as vocal skills, may be furthered developed when children are involved in chorus or other singing groups. Music’s rhythm has a calming effect on children who are naturally attuned to rhythmic beats. Babies in utero fall asleep to their mother’s beating heart. Infants relax when they hear lullabies. And, it is said that the “Mozart Effect” – the calming effect of classical music – quiets the mind and allows us to think more clearly. Social skills are polished as children learn to share musical instruments during music classes and work together to sing a song as a group. Teamwork is fostered through such group efforts. Early brain development involves the connection of millions of neurons, the result of neural stimulation. Simply listening to music, even without active participation, helps form neurons. Music therapy is thought to have healing powers for children, reducing fear, anxiety and stress during hospital stays. Ongoing studies involving musical therapy show promise for children with cancer, as well as autistic children. Kimberly A. Porrazzo is chief content officer for OC Family magazine. Tips from Pacific School of Music and the Arts for better practice sessions: 1. Have fun. Group lessons are recommended for young kids. 2. Practice in small increments. Take baby steps. 3. Go to a facility. Home practice leads to too many distractions. 4. Get kids on a regular routine. It helps them start and persist. 5. Parent participation is very important and offers the benefit of quality time. 6. Don’t overload your kids with too many additional activities that can cause them to burn out. Source: Pacific School of Music and the Arts artsforkids.com •> Recital jitters: tips from concert pianist Cameron Tong > There is no substitute for preparation. Tong says to prepare 150 percent to get 70 percent during a performance. > Get adequate rest the night before, and no heavy foods on the big day. > Warm up with scales. Go through the piece slowly or not at all the day of the performance. Conserve energy. > Remember to have fun and convey the spirit of the music during the performance. > Accept nerves as part of the performance process. Stay with the spirit and energy of the music. Source: camerontong.com |
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