Piano lessons are valuable even if you don't become a famous star! Studies have shown that the benefits of music lessons are many and may not be obvious for years.

Increased hand-eye coordination. Piano lessons help develop fine motor skills, coordination, and general dexterity. Writing and other related skills are improved.

Improved concentration. Reading music and translating written notes into the correct tempo and rhythm require focus and concentration. Piano lessons provide a valuable opportunity to develop these skills.

Improved school performance. In 2000, Francis Rauscher published research indicating that classroom keyboard lessons causes “enhancement of the spatial-temporal reasoning abilities of children” (Early Childhood Research Quarterly, 15, 215-228). In plain English, this means that piano lessons improved children’s understanding of concepts behind science, math, and even engineering.

Music appreciation. Understanding how musical notes, phrases, rhythms and styles make up musical compositions fosters a deeper understanding of the complexity of music. This carries through to a lifetime of music appreciation, for all types and styles of music.

Being well-rounded. Most children who learn to play the piano don't grow up to be concert pianists. However, having multiple interests and one or two hobbies add to their overall well-roundedness.

Confidence. The self-esteem boost that comes from mastering any musical instrument is considerable. It still feels good to rise to the challenge. And learning that practice improves performance is a lesson that children can carry over to many other aspects of their lives.

Improved memory. Children who learn to play the piano, don't easily forget.

Piano lessons are gifts parents can give to help their children do better in school, feel good about themselves, and add a bit of music to the world.

Aimee Phillips teaches piano lessons to children and adults. Not only do her students learn how to play a challenging instrument, but how to have fun playing the piano.

by Aimee Phillips - December 2007

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