Benefits of music education
Numerous studies reveal the many and profound benefits of music education for young children:
- Enhanced abstract reasoning skills (required for mathematics, science, and engineering)1
- Improved reading and other language skills2
- Increased levels of enjoyment in school, goal attainment, teamwork, leadership, feelings of success, and cultural exposure3
- Significantly higher attendance and graduation rates4
- Higher SAT scores5
1 Neurological Research, Feb 28, 1997; Frances Rauscher, Ph.D., Gordon Shaw, Ph.D., University of California, Irvine
2 Gardiner, M. F., Fox, A., Knowles, F., & Jeffrey, D. (1996). Learning improved by arts training. Nature, 381(6580), 284-284
2 Standley, J. M. (2008). Does music instruction help children learn to read? Evidence of a meta-analysis. Update: Applications of Research in Music Education, 27(1), 17-32
3 Weber, E.W., Spychiger, M. & Patry, J.L. (1993)
3 Jenlink, C. L. (1993). The relational aspects of a school, a music program, and at-risk student self-esteem: a qualitative study. (Doctoral dissertation, Oklahoma State University, 1993). Dissertation Abstracts International, 55(2A), 0214
4 Harris Interactive Inc. (2006). Understanding the Linkages between Music Education and Educational Outcomes
5 Profiles of SAT and Achievement Test Takers, The College Board, compiled by the Music Educators National Conference (2002)