The Importance of Music Class in School

Listening to music, interpreting, and appreciating it offers many benefits for the development of children from an early age. Let's take a look at the importance of music education in the classroom. 
The Importance of Music Class in School

Last update: 12 February, 2020

Music class has shown great results in children’s development. Unfortunately, many schools and academic institutions are now excluding music from their syllabus to focus more on other subjects.

However, music is a fundamental subject. It’s an extremely important class for children’s overall development and education. Studying music has also been shown to help lead to better brain development, enhance human relationships, and even relieve stress.

Removing music class from schools is a mistake because children miss out on a pleasant activity that can enrich their life and education. There are clear reasons to support teaching this class in all schools. Let’s take a look below.

Music stimulates brain development in children

Several studies have found that studying music can lead to an improvement in children’s brain development. A study at Northwestern University was able to find better neural processing in students who could play a musical instrument versus students who only listen to music. 

This study shows us the importance of receiving musical education. It’s not enough to play background music while children work on other subjects.

Other studies have found an increase in IQ points in children who were dedicated to music. In contrast to students who didn’t take music classes, those who did had more improvements in their IQ subtests.

The Importance of Music Class in School

Music class is also a great way to improve reading comprehension skills in children. Another study from Northwestern University was able to conclude that students who would actively participate in music class had better literacy skills than children who didn’t.

Music incorporates many different themes

Another reason why music class is so important in schools is that it integrates many different themes at the same time. This subject will allow children to develop their musical skills. Additionally, it will also give them the opportunity to work on their math, reading and writing, science, and history skills.

For example, studying musical figures and their duration is a great way to incorporate mathematical fractions and understand them naturally. Lyrical analysis or creating songs and reading scores will allow children to work on their reading and writing skills.

If we learn how instruments work, we’ll be learning things about the physics of sound. The history of music allows us to know important historical events.

Music is a way to connect with others

Musical education is also important because students will have a way to connect with others. Children are social by nature; therefore, it’s important to encourage them to build relationships and provide them with experiences to share with others.

Participating in a school band, singing a musical number, or being part of a choir makes children work together to achieve the same goal. This will create bonds and give students something they can remember together in the future.

Music class enhances discipline

Music will also teach children to develop discipline. Students have to practice and rehearse with their instruments outside of school.

While trying to learn to play the flute, for example, they’ll create a habit and plan schedules. Internalizing discipline and time management from an early age will bring countless benefits for a child’s future.

The Importance of Music Class in School

Music class relieves stress

When children know they have music class at school, they usually look forward to it. Music is an excellent way to relieve stress.

Oftentimes, children get overwhelmed with school work. Trying to balance more technical activities with other artistic pursuits is very beneficial. Several studies show that music can reduce fatigue and improve a person’s mood. 

As parents and educators, it’s very important to know and remember the importance of music in school. This is one more way to fight to maintain music education in our centers.


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This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.