The word is out! Music lesson rooms are places where kids celebrate creativity, learn cooperation and discipline, and gain self-esteem through the joy of music-making. It's a fact: kids who make music are more successful in society and life.

Although the hours spent practicing for a weekly music lesson or preparing for a performance are well worth the obvious outcomes -- enjoyment, success and recognition -- it is now known that this training has far-reaching personal and social benefits. When kids make music, they:

• develop muscles -- improve small motor skills, hand-eye coordination and poise
• find creative potential -- become aware of their capabilities by using imagination and self-expression
• develop personal and social skills -- build confidence, self-discipline and responsibility. Kids learn to meet challenges, work for and cooperate with others.
• prepare for the future -- kids learn time management, goal setting, and become better communicators.

Music does make the difference, and research shows that the earlier a child starts, the better.

Did you know?

Thirty minutes of daily music instruction for one year was credited for increased perceptual-motor skills and creative thinking tests on first grade students.

Did you know?

At risk children who participated in an arts program that included music showed significant increases in overall self-concept.

Did you know?

Secondary students who participated in band or orchestra reported the lowest lifetime and current use of all substances (alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs).

Did you know?

College-age musicians are emotionally healthier than their non-musician counterparts. A study conducted at the University of Texas looked at 362 students who were in their first semester of college. They were given three tests, measuring performance anxiety, emotional concerns and alcohol-related problems. In addition to having fewer battles with the bottle, researchers also noted that the college-aged music students seemed to have surer footing when facing tests.

Did You know?

The very best engineers and technical designers in the Silicon Valley industry are, nearly without exception, practicing musicians.