Music lessons: Just trying them out… or something more?

​Many parents enroll their children in various activities to keep them engaged, active, and developing important skills. Sometimes it’s to explore potential talents, sometimes it’s just to fill time productively. When I first started piano lessons, it was simply presented as a summer activity—one of many choices. Little did I know it would become my passion, lead to a scholarship, shape my college experience, and eventually turn into a lifelong career. Parents often “test out” different activities without a clear mission, and that’s completely normal. Music lessons, like sports or art classes, often begin as just another activity to try, sometimes with no particular expectations. But what happens when a child really enjoys music? Or when they show an instinctive ability for it? That’s where things get interesting.

When parents sign their children up for activities, it’s often a process of exploration—trying out different things to see what fits. Music lessons frequently fall into this category. Some children ask for lessons, but many are signed up by parents who simply want to give them an opportunity, whether for personal growth, cognitive development, or just to stay busy. This approach is completely normal! Sometimes an activity clicks, and other times it doesn’t. But what happens when a child truly enjoys music lessons or shows a natural ability? What should parents do next to help their child gain the most benefit?

First, it’s important to recognize that learning an instrument is not like a seasonal sport or an extracurricular club. It’s a journey that builds over time. Unlike activities with a clear start and end point, music lessons thrive on consistency. The best progress happens when lessons continue year-round, without long breaks that cause setbacks. Even if a child plays regularly at home, the majority of real learning, correction, and guided progress happens during lesson time with a teacher’s expertise. While home practice is essential for building familiarity and ease with the instrument, it cannot replace the structured learning that occurs in lessons.

Beyond the ability to play an instrument, music education offers profound benefits—some of which may surprise parents. Scientific research has shown that learning to play an instrument strengthens the brain in ways that go beyond what we typically hear about. For example:

Enhanced Executive Function: A study from Boston Children’s Hospital found that children with musical training showed stronger executive function skills—like problem-solving, working memory, and the ability to switch between tasks—compared to their peers without music lessons.

Improved Emotional Regulation: Neuroscientific research suggests that music training helps children manage their emotions and develop resilience, as learning an instrument involves overcoming challenges, dealing with frustration, and achieving goals through persistence.

Better Language and Literacy Skills: Studies indicate that music training enhances phonemic awareness, helping young learners develop stronger reading and language skills. The rhythm and pitch recognition involved in music directly correlate with language processing abilities.

Stronger Neural Connectivity: Brain imaging studies have revealed that musicians develop stronger connections between the left and right hemispheres of the brain, which may contribute to improved memory, creativity, and even quicker decision-making.

While many parents enroll their children in music lessons without a specific long-term vision, it’s worth considering the unique benefits and approach needed for success. Unlike school subjects that are often measured by test scores or seasonal activities that come and go, music requires a balance of structured learning and personal enjoyment. If parents embrace this perspective—not as a high-pressure commitment, but as a unique and valuable skill that grows over time—the experience becomes incredibly rewarding. Whether a student continues for a few years or a lifetime, the benefits extend far beyond the music itself, shaping their cognitive, emotional, and social development in ways that last forever.

​Who knew?​

If you'd like to learn more about lesson programs at The Music Studio, we'd love to have you visit for a Complimentary Tryout.  It's a great way to meet teachers, sample an actual lesson, and see if our studio is a good fit for you.  There's no pressure or obligation to continue, your tryout is complete free of charge...just click here: COMPLIMENTARY TRYOUT LESSON.