20/5 – Why Learning A Musical Instrument Might Be The Best Thing You Do During The COVID-19 Lockdown

We are pleased to share this excellent article written by Sophie Ogunyemi from Take it Away – now is the best chance most of us have had and probably will ever have to finally pick up and instrument and get going! Keep reading and learn why you should be making music now:

It is a form of therapy

• EVERY musician I’ve spoken to agrees that there’s nothing better to unwind and release emotions than playing their instruments.
• It’s a great way to release stress and relax as it takes your mind off everyday worries.
• Here’s an article specifically on The Power of Music To Reduce Stress.

It is a brain work out

• Learning and playing an instrument regularly uses parts of your brain which improve your memory and concentration powers.
• Figuring out and understanding rhythm is problem-solving akin to maths equations.
• Reading music is learning a new language and therefore improving your comprehension skills.
• It has been proven!

It is a physical work out

• Ok, this one might depend more on which instrument you go for but, for example, brass instruments take a great deal of effort from your core and lungs for breath control. Drumming can use so much of your body that you often end up doing cardio!
• And your coordination will improve. When you’re playing, you’re asking your brain and body to coordinate at a fast pace between your eyes, hands and mind.

It unleashes creativity, self-expression and emotional development 

• All music is subject to interpretation. It’s up to you to express and add your personality to everything you play.
• Playing musical instruments enhances your emotional stability and helps you develop empathy towards others.

It helps you develop self-discipline and patience

• Starting from scratch isn’t going to be all smooth sailing (even for a natural). Mastering it to any level takes practice, a process in itself which will improve your willpower.
• Putting in the hours to learn this new skill means you’ll have to organise your time effectively which will help with your time management.

It can improve your social life 

• Once you’ve got the basics down, you can join ensembles meeting other musicians and build your team working, leadership and management skills.

It helps with your confidence

• The sense of achievement and accomplishment you get from nailing a section or even a whole song leaves you feeling positive, proud and uplifted which all adds up to you feeling more confident!
• Performing for an audience – friends, family or the world at large, might take you out of your comfort zone but taking that risk and putting yourself out there will help you to become a better presenter in work and general life.

All these added bonuses aside, making music is fun! It stimulates your brain and stops you from sitting idly whilst scrolling through various social media platforms…