The idea that learning music, especially an instrument, has a positive impact on cognitive development has been around for a long time, but scientific support for it does exist. A 2001 College Entrance Examination study demonstrated that students who had studied music at some point their lives scored significantly higher on the math and verbal sections of the SAT. Like math and language, music is based on a system of rules and formulas that learners must memorize and internalize in order to be able to read sheet music or play an instrument. Learning this skill aids students in other subjects.
Learning music helps build students' self-confidence. Learning to play an instrument or being able to read sheet music are tasks that require discipline and hard work; mastering such skills gives students a real sense of accomplishment. Furthermore, learning music in school can lead to performing at recitals and concerts, which teaches students to overcome nerves. Performing in front of an audience takes courage and leaves students with a feeling of achievement.
Music offers students a medium for personal expression that is difficult to find elsewhere. A music teacher provides students with the tools to sing well, play an instrument or even simply appreciate music or learn about its history. Music is a great outlet for emotional expression that may not be available to students without a musical education.
Not only is studying music beneficial in and of itself, but a musical education can also lead to opportunities otherwise unavailable to students. Hundreds of scholarships offering financial aid are available to students of music. Often you can earn a high school credit for taking instrument lessons. Mastering an instrument can lead to a job teaching the instrument later. If students pursue the instrument far enough, they can major in it in college or take music courses as electives. A musical education opens doors of possibilities for students.